Arandovo partners with Swisseutic for eggshell membrane ingredient in DACH market
MKARE is made from fresh eggshell membrane using a gentle hydromechanical separation process to preserve the integrity of the native proteins to ensure optimal levels of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, said the companies in a press release.
Arandovo, which is part of the Pascual Group, aims to leverage Swisseutic's strong presence in the DACH region to facilitate the introduction of MKARE to local pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and food companies for joint, skin and connective tissue health.
MKARE
According to the release, the production process for MKARE allows for a greater integrity of soluble proteins such as ovotransferrin and ovocalixin-36 compared to other typical egg membrane proteins.
A paper published in the Journal of Functional Foods reported that data from in vitro tests indicated that the freshness of the eggshell membrane appeared to be a crucial factor in the ingredient’s efficacy.
“The integrity and concentration of vital constituents are best maintained in fresh membranes, making them more effective in promoting joint health and alleviating osteoarticular symptoms,” wrote scientists from the University of Léon, Arandovo S.L., and the Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED).
The same paper details results of a mechanistic study, which showed the ingredient exerted both anti-inflammatory effects and regenerative action on human chondrocyte cells.
Data from a clinical trial that included 60 people with an average age of 51 and osteoarthritic problems (symptoms of pain, stiffness or functionality problems) found that supplementation with 300 mg per day of MKARE led to significant overall improvements in scores on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) after both 30 and 60 days. Significant improvements were also reported for measures of pain, stiffness and physical function.
The researchers described their results as “promising” before noting that “using ESM [eggshell membrane] as a natural alternative in medical applications requires a nuanced understanding of both its unique properties and the broader context of natural product utilization in healthcare.”
Another clinical trial examining the ingredient’s potential beauty-from-within benefits is currently pending publication, said the companies.
A highly effective composition
Commenting on the new partnership, Christian Artaria, CEO of Swisseutic, said: “MKARE is an excellent example of innovation in the functional ingredients sector for the food and nutraceutical industries, where the integration of a cutting-edge production process with an optimized supply chain has resulted in a product with a unique and highly effective composition.
“We are confident that MKARE will be well-received by our partners, as it meets the needs of a constantly evolving market that increasingly seeks superior quality solutions backed by solid scientific evidence.”
Maria Eugenia Sadaba, general manager at Arandovo S.L., added: “With over two decades of experience in marketing scientifically validated branded ingredients, Christian Artaria and the Swisseutic team bring unmatched expertise to this partnership. Their profound knowledge of the DACH market, combined with a commitment to excellence, aligns perfectly with our vision.
“Together, we are excited to introduce MKARE to new consumers, confident in its ability to deliver unique health benefits and improve well-being.”
Source: Journal of Functional Foods
May 2024, Volume 116, 106119, doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2024.106119
“Anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects of MKARE Eggshell Membrane: An in vitro osteoarthritis model and placebo-controlled clinical study”
Authors: A. Casado-Santos et al.
