Citrus aurantium patents
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Patent & Trademark Office issues three patents to Zhishin for Advantra Z citrus aurantium extract for weight loss, physical performance, according to Nutratech, the ingredient's exclusive worldwide licensee. Patented claims include "increasing the ratio of lean muscle to total body mass," "improving athletic performance" and "suppressing appetite," in addition to earlier patented claim for "stimulating thermogenesis and reducing weight." Advantra Z is found in USANA, Natrol and Twinlab products; ingredient soon will appear in NBTY supplements as well. Acknowledging presence of other, potentially infringing citrus aurantium products on market, Nutratech says it will take any "necessary action" to protect its intellectual property rights...