This milestone, driven by a recent study confirming the ingredient’s role to support joint health, marks the first-ever recognition of MSM under this category in Japan and underscores its proven safety, efficacy and reliability.
The approval also allows companies using OptiMSM in their formulations to now feature joint health-related claims on product packaging.
Spotlighting safety, quality and efficacy
“As a source of sulphur, MSM is a critical component in the building blocks of joints and connective tissues. It provides cartilage with much-needed nutrients and helps to maintain joint comfort,” comments Jessica Arnaly, Senior Marketing & Business Development Manager, Human Nutrition & Health.
“With a longstanding reputation in the joint health space, Balchem’s OptiMSM already stands out as the only form of MSM to have received a GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) letter of non-objection in the US."
"Now, with its recognition under Japan’s Food with Functional Claims, we further solidify its role in supporting mobility, as well as its leading quality, reliability and strong scientific background.”
The Foods with Functional Claims system enables brands to label foods or supplements with scientifically supported health benefits, grounded in evidence from systematic literature reviews or clinical trials.
OptiMSM approval was based on a study showing the potential of oral MSM intake at a dose of 2000 mg/day to improve overall joint health and comfort in individuals experiencing mild pain in knee joints.
The randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated 88 healthy adults consuming either 2000 mg of OptiMSM or a placebo for 12 weeks.
Using the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure (JKOM), the study demonstrated that participants taking OptiMSM saw improvements in pain levels, especially in the morning and while standing.
“Joint health is a key focus in Japan's functional food and drink market, with growing product innovation aimed at both seniors and younger consumers, and an emphasis on nutritional solutions to support mobility and healthy ageing,” concludes Arnaly.
“MSM is already widely used in dietary supplement brands in Japan. With this approval, OptiMSM can now support our Japanese consumers, allowing for clear on-pack claims while also providing greater assurance about the health benefits of MSM-containing products.”
