News

Naturex signs with Kura for fermented minerals

8 Feb 2018

Naturex has signed a global distribution agreement via its Open Innovation program (Ingenium) with Ames-based Cura for its Koji Minerals line of fermented minerals.

In what the company says is a continuing effort to bring new innovation solutions to customers, Naturex has signed a global distribution agreement via its Open Innovation program (Ingenium) with Ames-based Cura for its Koji Minerals line of fermented minerals for the dietary supplement and functional food markets.

According to the World Health Organization, Naturex notes, iron deficiency is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world. But the global iron deficiency gap has not been bridged. Lack of innovation and limited consumer awareness have resulted in only modest growth for the mineral category overall.

For over 2000 years, Koji (Aspergillus oryzae) has been used to make popular fermented foods like soy sauce, miso, and sake. The proprietary process converts inorganic materials into organic forms through koji fermentation. Cura’s patented and scientifically-based technology platform delivers naturally-fermented, vegan-friendly, easy to digest and bioavailable whole food minerals.

Naturex is launching two new products based on Koji fermentation:

+ A stand-alone Iron with optimal bioavailability and slow release effect (results supported by two clinical studies)

+ A blend of seven minerals (Iron, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Selenium, Molybdenum, Chromium) particularly suitable for the multiminerals segment.

“With the global discoveries around gut health and microbiota, fermented foods are receiving wider consumer acceptance around the world. We are very pleased to partner with Cura Global Health who have developed breakthrough nutritional solutions that are in tune with the brewing fermentation trend,” said Naturex’s Nutrition & Health VP, Timothée Olagne.

“Cura is excited to partner with Naturex to help bring Koji Minerals to the market. Naturex has a global sales presence, a distribution reach, and a professional team, making them an ideal partner. Together we will be able to deliver high quality, efficacious minerals that enhance human health and people’s lives,” said Dr. Bruce Wicking, President & CEO, Cura.