Pterostilbene is chemically related to resveratrol, and reports indicate its promise for improving cardiovascular health, glucose levels, and cognitive function.
"The highly beneficial properties of pterostilbene are expected to guarantee huge market potential for pterostilbene in the human nutrition industry," said Sneha Pasricha, Frost & Sullivan senior research analyst.
Pterostilbene is very similar to resveratrol, but the former reportedly has the advantage of metabolizing at a slower rate in the body giving it more opportunity to be absorbed into the blood stream. ChromaDex has licensed patents related to cholesterol control, diabetes, and oxidative stress.
"With such strengthening Intellectual Property body, pterostilbene is expected to expand into various health markets including anti-aging, heart health and memory enhancement," added Pasricha.
The award was welcomed by Frank Jaksch, ChromaDex CEO, who said it “confirms pTeroPure's ability to produce sustained value across multiple market channels by providing distinct, science-based health benefits to a broad range of consumer segments”.
“Furthermore, it validates our corporate strategy of continuing to develop and commercialize novel, proprietary ingredients that are grounded in science and focused on enhancing health. We accept the award with enthusiasm and look forward to the exciting future that awaits pTeroPure,” he added.
Clinical trial
In September 2010, ChromaDex announced the initiation of a clinical study at The University of Mississippi to examine the effects of its pterostilbene ingredient in people with lipid disorders.
The clinical trial is being conducted at the UM Medical Center in Jackson. Participants will receive high and low doses of pterostilbene – a compound found in grapes and blueberries and chemically related to resveratrol - with and without grape extract, or a placebo.
F&S criteria
The F&S award was graded on a number of criteria, including unique selling features, continued research efforts, current market acceptance and growth potential, and marketing and promotion endeavors.