In an effort to increase global awareness and promote the use of dietary zeaxanthin, a group of international companies, which includes DSM, Chrysantis and Kalsec, have formed the Zeaxanthin Trade Association.

Dietary zeaxanthin is the 3R 3’R isomer, which can also be found in fruit or vegetables. It is a critical nutrient for eye health, which may help guard against vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.

However, the difference between various zeaxanthin isomers is not completely understood. For this reason, as one of its first actions, the Zeaxanthin Trade Association will adopt common quality standards for dietary zeaxanthin. This will help dietary supplements and food manufacturers ensure that their source of zeaxanthin complies with GMP standards.

“There is a tremendous need to bridge the information gap between consumers, manufacturers and the regulatory bodies,” said Kristina Cselovszky, global business manager, DSM Nutritional Products. “The Zeaxanthin Association membership provides companies with an unprecedented opportunity to join resources and build its understanding through education, research and quality assurance.”

Kevin Meyle, director of product management, Nutritional Ingredients, Kalsec Inc. explained: “The Zeaxanthin Association provides a unique opportunity to help all zeaxanthin users to comply with the regulatory framework in the manufacturing of dietary supplements containing zeaxanthin.”

Commenting on the benefits, Manuel Pavon, general manager, Chrysantis Inc. said: “The new trade association membership provides companies with an exceptional chance to become the stewards of the dietary zeaxanthin market and architects of a new positive self-regulatory coalition for quality, safety and open communication that benefits all members of the supply chain.”

The Zeaxanthin Association is open to all members of the dietary zeaxanthin industry supply chain, such as manufacturers, formulators, distributors and marketers, as well other interested parties such as healthcare professionals, educators and researchers.