The 2023 NutraIngredient-USA Awards recently crowned IMMUSE™ postbiotic as the winner of the Ingredient of the Year: Microbiome Modulation category, recognizing its unique approach to supporting immune health and strong scientific substantiation. Developed by Kyowa Hakko USA, IMMUSE postbiotic is a patented strain of lactic acid bacteria, known as LC-Plasma, which offers comprehensive immune support at the cellular level.
The NutraIngredient-USA Awards, now in its sixth year, highlights excellence in the dietary supplement industry, focusing on innovation, market success, and cutting-edge research. This year, the prebiotic and probiotic categories were merged to encompass the entire microbiome modulation space, including ingredients that beneficially modulate the microbiome to enhance health. The Ingredient of the Year: Microbiome Modulation award recognizes products with solid scientific evidence supporting their unique nutritional solutions.
IMMUSE postbiotic’s standout feature is its ability to activate plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), rare immune cells that play a crucial role in leading the immune system. By stimulating pDCs, IMMUSE enhances the function of other essential immune cells, such as NK, Killer-T, Helper T, and B cells, providing a holistic approach to immune system support.
Backed by over a decade of scientific research and 15 human clinical trials, IMMUSE postbiotic has demonstrated efficacy in supporting immune health at the cellular level, promoting healthy days, respiratory health, year-round health, and immune support during intense training. Karen Todd, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at Kyowa Hakko USA, emphasized the importance of rigorous clinical testing in establishing the efficacy of branded ingredients to earn consumers’ trust.
IMMUSE postbiotic’s stability at high temperatures and long shelf life make it versatile for various applications in final products. From powders and capsules to functional beverages and food, IMMUSE can be seamlessly integrated into formulations. This flexibility allows manufacturers to differentiate their immune health products and reach a broader consumer base.
Manufacturers interested in incorporating IMMUSE postbiotic into their next immune health product can visit Kyowa Hakko USA’s For Manufacturer’s Page to explore partnership opportunities and learn more about the award-winning ingredient. The recognition of IMMUSE at the NutraIngredient-USA Awards underscores the value of clinically researched ingredients in delivering on their promised benefits and building consumer trust in the competitive biotics market.