Data delivery: DSM’s new micronutrient database aims at cost-saving, more efficient NPD

Known as NutriView, the proprietary online database is aimed at helping finished product brands and manufacturers create products that target specific populations needs and/or allow them to make products with specific health claims.

Based on national nutrition surveys, population studies published on peer-reviewed scientific journals, and food balance sheet, the database provides information on nutrient intake level by women and men across six different age groups from the age of one to 50 and above.

A total of 10 vitamins and three minerals are covered in the database, including vitamin A, C, D, E, the B vitamins, niacin, folate, iron, zinc, and calcium.

Aside from intake levels, the database also compares the gaps between the population’s median nutrient intake level and national reference nutrient intake levels, such as Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI).

Using the database, companies would be able to identify the types of micronutrients that are lacking in specific consumer groups, and this is an area that they could focus on when it comes to new product development.

The 11 markets that are included in the database are China, Japan, Australia, India, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Philippines. 

“Historically, DSM has been an ingredient supplier and we are expanding to provide market-ready solutions to meet customers’ demand, especially with the disruptions seen in supply chain,” ​Dr Taichi Inui, Head of Science Translation and Advocacy – APAC told NutraIngredients-Asia ​during Vitafoods held in Bangkok during October 5 and 7.

“The database highlights the more problematic nutrients for specific populations.​ For example, South Korea has an unexpectedly low vitamin C level.” ​

In contrast, the Oceania markets have a higher intake of calcium, iron, and vitamin C as compared to the other markets.

With the database, companies would also be able to provide “semi-personalised” solutions for a specific population with less cost. This is as opposed to creating cookie cutter formulations already present in the market or creating personalised nutrition that comes at a much higher cost.

“The gold standard is to have a healthy balanced diet. As a science-driven company, we want to validate and verify if us as a demographic is taking in enough micronutrients.​

“We don’t necessarily need everything of anything. This method is less costly and allows companies to provide semi-customised micronutrient solutions,” ​Dr Inui said.

In addition, developing new products using this method is also more environmentally friendly.

“As one of the largest producers of vitamins, we are also sustainability driven and thus, the right way is to take sufficient amounts of micronutrients instead of taking them in excess.​

The database, which will be updated periodically, also contains a list of approved health claims and the corresponding micronutrient dosage requirements in each of the 11 markets.

At the tradeshow, DSM also showcased new product formats, such as omega-3 which comes in a smaller capsule size.