Legal experts note that J&J’s decision to end Johnson’s Baby Powder sales in the US and Canada closely followed a New Jersey federal court decision that largely denied the firm’s motions to bar testimony from plaintiff experts in multi-district talc litigation comprising around 16,000 cases.

Researchers say “no strong” evidence shows high vitamin D intake is beneficial to preventing or treating COVID-19, but adequate levels are needed to support immunity. Other researchers say countries should increase recommended vitamin D levels with “very suggestive” evidence supporting its effect against COVID-19 severity.

US and Europe led in 2019 sales of omega-3-fortified products worldwide, a market valued at $44bn that has extended beyond supplements and baby formulas to include foods, beverages and pet food, says GOED in report released 26 May. As the US market is ‘mature,’ its sales growth is expected at 5.8% in 2021, while sales of less mature markets such as Asia (excluding China) is anticipated to climb 12.6%.

GSK will appeal a finding that it doesn’t support its “100% Natural” claim for Benefiber Original and Healthy Shape. Question asked in the review from a P&G challenge reflects FDA’s ongoing consideration of whether a public health concern will emerge if it doesn’t substantially expand its regulation of use of the term.

GSK partners with biotech firm Mammoth Biosciences to develop a home-use OTC nasal swab test for COVID-19 that works in less than 20 minutes. Mammoth says the firms will seek an FDA emergency use authorization for the test, roll it out first to clinics and will seek approval for OTC sales. 

Thync Global’s Zing Energy neurostimulation patch and Tesla Nootropics’ Nubrain Brainstorm caffeine-free water are promoted as alternatives to caffeine and energy drinks. They join a market dominated by big brands but with competition growing from products that boost energy without caffeine and sugar.