Herbal renaissance
PS Pathanjali, in the Conference on Fortified Foods & Supplements, discussed the role of phytonutrients in nutritional applications. Purabi Naha brings out the highlights of the presentation
The use of nutraceuticals, as an attempt to achieve desirable therapeutic effect with reduced side effects, as compared with other therapeutic agents has met with great success. The nutraceutical sector is one of the most dynamic segments of the food industry. The genesis and evolution of nutraceuticals dates back to the period before 1940s, when herbal medicine played a very important role. Although herbal medicine was prevalent at that time, the advent of allopathic (modern) medicine was seen in 1940s. Allopathic medicine dominated the world market in 1970s. Herbal medicine was simply relegated to alternative medicine at that time. "So, we did have a challenge to bring in herbal medicine into the frontline pharmaceutical," remarked PS Pathanjali, Senior VP, Sami Labs.
Genesis of fortified foods
According to Mr Pathanjali, the evolution of fortified foods marked its beginning in what was termed as the first generation, where the focus was on rehydration and heart health (for example, tocopherols). The second generation saw the advent of tocotrienols/calcium supplements and iso flavones. Specific ingredients and blends in foods were seen in the third generation. Finally, the fourth generation welcomed dietary supplements and fortified foods as a revolutionary change.
The miraculous phytonutrients
Phytonutrients are said to be any chemical or nutrient derived from a plant source. These elicit a variety of biological activities, acting as anti-oxidants, phyto-estrogens, or enzyme inducers. These also promote the function of the immune system, act directly against bacteria and viruses, reduce inflammation and are associated with the treatment and/or prevention of cancer and CVD. Among the most promising compounds under study are bitter phenols, polyphenols, flavonoids, isoflavones and glucosinolates.
