German herbal extract company Plantextrakt is to launch its Oxbloxx antioxidant formula in a new, 'sugar stick' format.
The packaging, developed by sister company Martin Bauer of France, means that the formula can be carried around by consumers, ready to add to mineral water, juices or dairy products for extra health benefits. Called 'Oxbloxx Raspberry Instant', the sugar stick portion pack will be revealed at the 2003 Vitafoods trade show in Geneva from 13-15 May.
Described as weighing only 5 grams and able to fit in any wallet or pocket, the new product also claims to neutralise 'at once' free radicals which form during stress, sports, smoking or other harmful factors. Plantextrakt is hoping that the new technology answers consumer demand for convenience and will encourage purchase of functional foods and food supplements.
Martin Bauer, owned by MB-Holding, this year opened a new facility that can package powdered products into portion-size units. It claims that there is already considerable demand in France for this kind of product. The new technology is also available to Plantextrakt clients.
The Oxbloxx formulas, which contain herbs such as hibiscus extract, peppermint, rosehip extract and also green tea compounds, were first introduced to the market at the Health Ingredients show in Paris in 2002. The antioxidant complexes are now being sold in many soft drinks, health beverages and food supplements and can be found in supermarkets throughout Europe, according to the company.
"Antioxidative features remain a major topic in Europe," said Michael Blöser of Plantextrakt. Scientific research suggests that polyphenols, which can be found naturally in green tea and hibiscus, possess strong antioxidant potential.
Other Plantextract products which can be viewed at the show include the Oxbloxx drinks available in 'Apple', 'Passion Peach' and 'Black Currant' flavours. The soft drinks contain hibiscus, linden bloom, green tea and other plant extracts and their tastes are claimed to range from exotic to fruity-fresh. The range also includes two decaffeinated green teas also with antioxidative complexes.