The two ingredients are suspended in 20% sunflower oil, a popular oil choice because of its stable nature and absence of a genetically modified variety.
Lutemax ingredients are naturally-derived, containing the macular carotenoids of lutein and zeaxanthin isomers RR-zeaxanthin nd RS [meso]-zeaxanthin, used in many eye health supplements. According to the company, they are produced in a fully vertically integrated supply chain that comply to GMPs and sustainable practices.
"We have invested tremendously in R&D, clinical studies, operational and manufacturing efficiencies as well as education and awareness campaigns, and this is another huge milestone as we pursue our goal to deliver the best macular carotenoid ingredient on the market," said Makrand Bhalerao, vice president, quality of OmniActive, in a press release.
"Having Non-GMO Project verification is what all ingredients in our industry strive for, and this is just the first step in our ongoing efforts toward gaining certification for our entire Lutemax range of ingredients."
Brian Appell, marketing manager, activation of OmniActive said “it's clear that consumers are increasingly concerned about GMOs and are actively seeking alternatives and greater transparency in their choices. As part of our efforts around traceability and transparency, we felt that non-GMO verification was the next logical step."
Studies on the benefits of macular carotenoids
The company funds and supports many studies that explore the link between carotenoids and eye health. Most recently, an animal study funded by OmniActive and authored by researchers from universities in China and Ohio elucidated the potential mechanism in which macular carotenoid supplementation may benefit the eyes in a blue-light filled world. It was published this month in Nutrients.
If our eyes are a fortress, imagine that blue light is like cannonballs, Appell told us. “You’re going to be missing that piece of the wall unless you’re replacing the bricks,” he explained.
“So we’re showing that correlation, that blue light actually will deplete macular pigments, and by supplementing with them you’ll keep levels high enough to protect you over the course of a lifetime.”
This study itself builds on a human study published last year, which found that humans who ingested supplements containing Lutemax 2020 had a higher macular pigment optical density, and reported less eye strain and fatigue than the control group.