Balchem Corporation, a manufacturer of encapsulated supplements for human nutrition, commended the Food and Drug Administration's recent decision authorising products containing qualifying amounts of choline to carry a nutrient label claim. Foods and supplements meeting these guidelines will be able to claim they are a "good source" or "excellent source of choline." Choline is recognised to play a key role in the structural integrity of cell membranes, processing dietary fat, reproductive development and neural functions, such as memory and muscle function. "We are pleased by the FDA's decision on choline," said Patricia Siuta-Cruce, Ph. D., vice president, technology for Balchem Corporation. "Consumers around the world want nutrients that enhance performance and help prevent specific health problems. The FDA's labelling guidelines provide consumers with a critical tool to help them identify products containing choline, which is essential for promoting health benefits." In June 2001, Balchem Corporation acquired certain assets of DCV, Inc. and its affiliate, DuCoa L.P., which provide high choline-content product on the market today. Through its encapsulation technology, Balchem has developed a stabilised form of choline that helps manufacturers deliver a reliable and cost effective source of choline to consumers. Current fortification requirements outlined by the FDA call for infant formula to be fortified with choline.
