DHA study: second time lucky
Martek Biosciences will conduct a new clinical study into the effects of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) on cognitive function in children, bosses have confirmed.
An earlier study had proved inconclusive because baseline scores achieved by children in cognitive tests prior to supplementation were so high that demonstrating improvements following supplementation was virtually impossible, said director Philip Fass.
A new study addressing this issue with more challenging tests and subtle measures of cognitive performance was planned, he said.
Martek, which is hoping that health claims about DHA and cognitive function, cardiovascular and eye health will gain EU regulatory approval, has been working with customers to include DHA in a range of new products beyond its core infant formula market, including milk for young children, DHA-enriched chews for pregnant women, bread, yoghurts, juice drinks and cooking oil, said Fass. "We've also got new customers in eastern Europe putting our DHA in pre-natal supplements."
