Plant Sterols Featured in Cholesterol Management Bars and Olive Oil

The Kardea system builds on the recommendations of the National Cholesterol Education Program from the U.S. National Institutes of Health, using soluble fiber and Vegapure plant sterols to alter cholesterol absorption and metabolism.

01/04/08 Cognis Nutrition and Health, the world’s leading source of natural phytosterols, was selected by Kardea Nutrition to supply Vegapure plant sterols for a new cholesterol management “system” including gourmet snack bars and a premium extra-virgin olive oil in the US.

The Kardea system builds on the recommendations of the National Cholesterol Education Program from the U.S. National Institutes of Health, using soluble fiber and Vegapure plant sterols to alter cholesterol absorption and metabolism. Company’s founder, Rob Leighton, established Kardea as part of a personal mission to lower his own cholesterol. At 49, Leighton wanted an alternative to drugs to lower his borderline high cholesterol.  In a quest to overcome the cholesterol hurdles often resulting from genetics and a typical diet, he learned that a Mediterranean diet, along with therapeutic levels of fiber and sterols can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol to healthy levels.

 “We offer a comprehensive system to help people reach optimal cholesterol levels,” Mr. Leighton explained.  “Taste guided every step of our development process, understanding that repeat purchases require great tasting-products.  The innovative flavors and appealing texture are distinguishing Kardea’s bars in an increasingly competitive category.” 

Kardea natural products feature heart-healthy bars including banana walnut, chai spice, cranberry almond and lemon ginger, and olive oil all fortified with Vegapure® plant sterols, plus nutritional supplements.  The products are available at www.kardeanutrition.com and at selected retail stores in New England.  A nationwide roll-out is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2008.
 
“Versatility was key in working with Kardea to create these new product applications,” said Laura Troha, Vegapure Marketing Manager.  “Bars and olive oil each present their own challenges when it comes to taste, stability, and shelf-life, and Cognis’ broad range of phytosterols made it easy for Kardea to find the right sterols for their various formulations.”

Natural phytosterols are found in vegetables, fruits, vegetable oils, legumes, nuts, and grains. Studies show that LDL cholesterol can be reduced up to 15 percent through daily use of phytosterols. With the industry’s broadest portfolio of all natural, kosher, non-GM/IP certified phytosterols, the Vegapure product line is ideal for variety of applications. Cognis’ Vegapure ingredients meet the requirements of the FDA-approved health claim for phytosterols and reduced risk of coronary heart disease. Cognis offers co-branded consumer marketing support under the Heart Choice brand.