Minami Nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions - April 2011
  1. What are omega-3 fatty acids and why are they beneficial?
    A: Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential nutrients for health. We need omega-3 fatty acids for numerous normal body functions, such as contributing to healthy eyes and supporting cell membranes in the brain; they are associated with many other health benefits, including maintaining heart health.†
  2. Which foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids?
    A: Our bodies cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids so we must obtain them through food or supplementation. There are two major types of omega-3 fatty acids:
    • ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) - found in some vegetable oils, such flaxseed, chia seed, rapeseed (canola), soybean and in walnuts. ALA is also found in some green vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach, and salad greens. The body only partially converts ALA to EPA and DHA.
    • EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) - found mostly in fatty fish.
  3. What is EPA and why is it beneficial?
    A: EPA has been found to promote a healthy circulatory system and consequently a healthy heart, support proper immune function, support joint flexibility, promote good mood and emotional well-being and is essential for learning and focus.† Research shows the benefits of EPA consumption in individuals over the age of 5 or 6, showing anti-inflammatory and mental- emotional benefits.†
  4. What is DHA and why is it beneficial?
    A: DHA has been found to be essential for memory and cognitive function and supportive of a healthy pregnancy. The visual and brain development of fetuses and infants is dependent on DHA. DHA is also known to reduce the harmful effects of stress and support a healthy heartbeat.† Our bodies actually convert EPA into DHA, but not the other way around. Research shows benefits for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as children ages 0-5 who take a supplement containing a higher amount of DHA to support growth and development.†
  5. What is Minami NutritionŽ?
    A: Minami NutritionŽ is a premium line of Supercritical Distilled Omega-3 Fatty Acid supplements, sourced from fish and algae. Minami is the only company to provide 100% Supercritically Distilled Omega-3 fatty acids, providing the most highly concentrated and the purest Omega-3 oils on the market.
  6. When and where did Minami NutritionŽ originate?
    A: Minami was founded by Jo Wyckmans in 1999, in Belgium. In the 1980's, Jo began using Salmon oil supplements as part of his health regimen, but saw an increase in his triglycerides. When looking for highly concentrated fish oils, he was disappointed in the purity levels of the fish oil products available. With increasing scientific evidence pointing towards the importance of EPA over DHA, Jo was one of few front runners in Europe to support the use of high EPA products for health.
    Jo's search for "the best" in nutritional supplements for himself and his family left him dissatisfied, but luckily led him to develop his own product line of highly concentrated, therapeutic Omega-3 oils. In 1999, Jo founded Minami and launched MorEPAŽ, a molecularly distilled, high concentration, high EPA, low DHA supplement. In 2002, Jo learned about Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Distillation and got exclusivity on the manufacturing process in order to create Omega-3 products for the commercial market. This process was shown to create products of the highest Omega-3 concentration and highest purity. CO2 distillation was and is an eco-friendly process, leaving the smallest carbon footprint possible.
  7. What products does the Minami line include?
    A: The Minami product line distributed in the United States includes:
    1. PLATINUM + Vitamin D3 (30 Softgels)
    2. MorEPAŽ (30, 60 & 120 Softgels)
    3. CardiO-3Ž (30 & 60 Softgels)
    4. PLUSEPAŽ (30 & 60 Softgels)
    5. MorDHAŽ (30 & 60 Softgels)
    6. MorO-3™ (60 Softgels)
    7. PlusKenkOŽ (30 Softgels)
    8. MorEPAŽ MINIs (60 Softgels)
    9. MorDHAŽ MINIs (30 Softgels)
    10. MorEPAŽ Chewable (60 Softgels)
    11. VeganDHAŽ (60 Softgels)
  8. How are Minami oils different from typical fish oils?
    A: Minami offers formulas with unsurpassed concentration levels, which means more Omega-3 nutrition, no fillers and fewer capsules to take. Minami's patented Supercritical Dual-Process CO2 technology gently and safely concentrates Omega-3s, yielding unique selectivity of the most biologically active Omega-3 fatty acids - EPA and DHA. Using less heat, less repeat processing, and natural Carbon Dioxide as a solvent, allows Minami to reach peak concentrations of 95% Omega-3, omitting superfluous fats and fillers. Minami's products are so highly concentrated that you need only two capsules per day. With other leading brands, you need to take three, four, five, even six capsules of fish oil to achieve our beneficial dosage.
  9. What is the Supercritical Dual-Process CO2 Technology?
    A: Minami Nutrition uses a patented, low-heat Supercritical Dual-Process CO2 technology that provides unprecedented levels of concentration, purity, sustainability and unique, custom formulations based on the latest advanced research.
    STEP ONE: Supercritical Fluid Extraction. In this step, fish oil is decontaminated and Omega-3s are gently concentrated without the use of high heat or harsh chemical solvents. Supercritical CO2 is used as a gentle and effective solvent, requiring low heat, protecting the heat-sensitive omega-3 fatty acids from oxidation. Saturated fats, cholesterol, and other superfluous fats are removed. STEP TWO: Supercritical Fluid Chromatography. In this next step, the pre-concentrated fish oil is further decontaminated, gently concentrated and separated into batches of pure EPA, and pure DHA. From here, Minami can create unique ratios of EPA and DHA based on the latest, advanced science using less heat and fewer repeat processes.
    The combination of these two technologies is a patented process delivering Omega-3 fish oil at the highest possible quality with the lowest possible impact on the environment.
  10. What are the benefits of Supercritical Dual-Process CO2 Technology?
    A: The patented Supercritical Dual-Process CO2 Technology poses many advantages:
    • 400% less heat used during the entire process than molecular distillation, with no oxygen exposure. Natural CO2 is used as gentle alternative to organic solvents and protects the final product from oxidation.
    • The most highly concentrated Omega-3 fatty acids available. Ordinary fish oil contains 30% Omega-3 and 70% added filler fats. Minami's formulas contain 65%-95% Omega-3 fatty acids with no saturated fats as filler.
    • Carbon dioxide in its supercritical state enables unique ratios of EPA and DHA, to reflect current scientific evidence on omega 3's
    • Unprecedented Purity. Each batch of Minami's oils are analyzed, exceeding strict international standards for heavy metals, PCB's, pesticides and dioxins. Visit www.minamiUS.com.
  11. Are Minami NutritionŽ products Pharmaceutical Grade?
    A: Yes. Pharmaceutical grade fish oil means the fish oil has been manufactured at a true Pharmaceutical API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) facility that has passed stringent audits devised by the pharmaceutical industry. The product must be in excess of 99 percent purity without any binders, fillers, excipients, dyes, or unknown substances.
  12. How are heavy metals, pesticides and other impurities removed from Minami's products?
    A: Our technology involves a patented three-step purification process, providing oils that are virtually free of contaminants (PCBs, dioxins) and/or heavy metals (such as mercury).
    • Activated Carbon Filtration
    • Super Critical Fluid Extraction (SFE)
    • Super Critical Fluid Chromatography (SFC)
    Activated Carbon Filtration allows for impurities to be irreversibly held in a porous carbon receptacle. To follow, both SFE and SFC use carbon dioxide in a super critical state, known as supercritical CO2. This advanced technology gently extracts Omega-3 fatty acids without applying excessive heat and/or chemical solvents. Thereby, this process eliminates the possibility of the formation of any isomeric (molecules of altered structure) or other unwanted by-products (excess fatty acids), of exposure to contamination and of residual solvents in the end product.
  13. Why do the majority of Minami's products contain such high amounts of EPA and smaller amounts of DHA?
    A: EPA and DHA, both Omega-3 fatty acids, have been found to act very differently in the body. Advanced Omega-3 research suggests that a high concentration of EPA, along with DHA, can support mood, cognitive function, and cardiovascular health.† Most early research on fish oils focused on the many benefits of DHA, but increasingly, EPA has come to the forefront. Where DHA is important structurally (especially when you are very young), EPA is a more functional Omega-3 fatty acid. Additionally, EPA can be converted into DHA as needed by the body.
  14. What species of fish are used in Minami's products?
    A: Minami Nutrition obtains small fish such as herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines from sustainably managed cold waters around Antartica (from the South Pacific Ocean) off the coast of Chile and Peru. These small fish are low on the food chain reducing the accumulation of harmful contaminants that are more prevalent in larger fish with longer life spans. Minami only uses abundant, sustainable fish species that are subject to stringent fishing quotas.
  15. How do I decide which Minami Product to use?
    A: Minami offers a unique line of omega-­3 products beneficial for certain target users and certain age groups. Our packaging gives helpful information about the benefits of each formula and the intended user. Minami has Omega-­3 formulas for all ages. If you have any questions please call our technical hotline at 1-­866-­465-­0051. If you have a medical condition, please consult your health care practitioner.
  16. What is Minami PLATINUM? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Minami PLATINUM is an ultra premium Omega-­3 supplement utilizing supercritical CO2 extraction technology that delivers an unprecedented 1,100mg of Omega-­3 nutrition and 75% Daily Value of Vitamin D in a convenient, once daily serving. Minami PLATINUM supports cardiovascular health†, cognitive function†, mood† and the immune system† and offers a clean, orange flavor with no fishy aftertaste. This formula is designed for adults who want an ultra-­ premium, convenient, once daily fish oil with the highest available Omega-­3 concentration (92%) and added vitamin D3.†
  17. What is Minami MorEPAŽ? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: MorEPAŽ is a premium Omega-­3 supplement utilizing supercritical CO2 extraction technology that delivers 800mg of Omega-­3 nutrition in a convenient, once daily serving. With unsurpassed purity levels, MorEPAŽ offers a clean, orange flavor with no fishy aftertaste. MorEPAŽ is the solution for those who seek the benefits of increased EPA consumption, specifically for cardiovascular health, cognitive function and mood.† With 580mg of EPA and 130mg of DHA, MorEPAŽ provides high concentrations of Omega-­3s (80%) in one single softgel.†
  18. What is Minami CardiO-­3Ž? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Omega-­3 fatty acids are notable for many benefits, especially their ability to support a healthy heart.† Omega-­3s like EPA and DHA have been shown to aid in the support of healthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels already in the normal range.† CardiO-­3Ž from Minami contains a high concentration of Omega-­3 fatty acids (90%) meaning more Omega-­3s to support heart health†, and less of the saturated fats you may be trying to avoid. CardiO-­3Ž contains 635mg of EPA and 194mg of DHA in a once daily orange flavored formula that provides you with a healthy dose of convenience as well.
  19. What is Minami PLUSEPAŽ? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: PLUSEPAŽ is a unique, one-­of-­a-­kind Omega-­3 formula. Minami uses patented technology that allows for the first 90% EPA formula available in the United States. Emerging Omega-­3 research is focused on high concentrations of EPA for the support of cognitive function, mood, immune system and cardiovascular health.† Like most of the Minami formulas, PLUSEPAŽ is a once daily formula, offering 500mg EPA per serving. PLUSEPAŽ is the first Omega-­3 formula available that features a 95% concentration of Omega-­3s, meaning more Omega-­3s and less fillers like saturated fats. For anyone looking to see the benefits associated with a pure EPA formula, PLUSEPAŽ is the smart choice.
  20. Why is DHA recommended for Pregnancy and breastfeeding?
    A: From the start of the third quarter of a pregnancy until 18 months DHA is an essential nutritional component for the healthy development of a baby. Pregnant women lose up to half of their own DHA reserve, and supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding is typically recommended as a result.
  21. What is Minami MorDHAŽ? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: MorDHAŽ is a premium Omega-­3 supplement utilizing supercritical CO2 extraction technology that delivers 465mg of DHA nutrition in a convenient, once daily serving. A woman's demand for DHA increases during pregnancy and DHA taken during lactation enhances the quality of breast milk.† DHA is also essential for the proper development of infants and children.† 600mg of Total Omega-­3s is twice the minimum recommendation (300mg according to the National Institute of Health (NIH)) of daily Omega-­3 intake in one easy-­to-­swallow softgel, one of the highest potency formulas available on the market. MorDHAŽ offers a clean, lemon flavor with no fishy aftertaste and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure unsurpassed purity, providing you and your child all of the benefits of Omega-­3s AND peace of mind.
  22. What is Minami MorO-­3™ Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: MorO-­3™ is a triglyceride form of Omega-­3 fish oil that uses patented technology that does not require excess heating through multiple distillation processes. MorO-­3™ is highly concentrated Omega-­3 fish oil that delivers 1,040mg of total Omega-­3s, with 608mg of EPA and 288mg of DHA in a twice daily formula. MorO-­3™ is for people who prefer their fish oils in triglyceride form, but dont' want the excess heating that is often present in conventional means of processing fish oil. Additionally, like all Minami fish oils, MorO-­3™ undergoes the most rigorous testing to ensure a fish oil of unsurpassed purity. MorO-­3™ offers a clean, orange flavor with no fishy aftertaste and a balanced ratio of EPA to DHA to support cognitive function, cardiovascular health and the immune system.†
  23. What is Minami PlusKenkOŽ? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Minami fish oils aren't just for heart and brain health support! PlusKenkOŽ is a complete spectrum fatty acid formula, containing Omega 3-­6-­7-­9 that supports a healthy mind, body and skin.† PlusKenkOŽ is a source of highly concentrated marine Omega-­3s from small deep-­sea fish, GLA from borage oil and extra zinc for skin support.† PlusKenkOŽ also provides a meaningful amount of EPA and DHA, while adding ingredients that support your beauty from within in a once daily formula.† PlusKenkOŽ supports cardiovascular health, mood and healthy skin.†
  24. What is Minami MorEPAŽ MINIs? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Omega-­3s are important for everyone, but especially for our young ones. MorEPAŽ MINIs is a high-­EPA formula for children 10 and older, and contains 482mg of EPA alongside 66mg of DHA. Best of all, MorEPAŽ MINIs are smaller softgels. As children enter their adolescent years, their health needs grow along with them. Providing your child with a quality Omega-­3 fish oil like MorEPAŽ MINIs can help you ensure that they are getting the premium nutrition they need.†
  25. What is Minami MorDHAŽ MINIs? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Omega-­3s are important for everyone, but especially for our young ones. MorDHAŽ MINIs is a high-­DHA formula for children 10 and older, and contains 241mg of DHA and 33mg of EPA. Best of all, MorDHAŽ MINIs are smaller softgels.† DHA plays a key role in children development.† Unfortunately, many children do not consume enough fish in their diets and may be lacking in healthy amounts of DHA. MorDHAŽ MINIs are the perfect solution for parents who recognize the benefits of increased DHA to support the health and well-­being of their children.
  26. What is Minami MorEPAŽ Chewable? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Kids can be notoriously finicky and repeated studies show that our youngsters are not eating enough fish. Parents of children 4 and older can rely on MorEPAŽ Chewable to provide their children with premium Omega-­3 nutrition, with a taste that kids will love. A daily serving of MorEPAŽ Chewable delicious orange-­flavored Omega-­3 softgels provides 500mg of EPA and 69mg of DHA. Parents can be assured that they are providing their children with the Omega-­3 fatty acids that all children need to support their health and well-­being.†
  27. What is Minami VeganDHAŽ? Who would benefit from using this product?
    A: Those who embrace a vegan lifestyle are often challenged to acquire certain nutrients through their diet. Many vegans do not get an adequate supply of DHA due to the limited number of plant-­based foods rich in DHA. VeganDHAŽ uses a special marine algae (Schizochytrium sp.) that is rich in DHA. Like all Minami formulas, VeganDHAŽ is processed utilizing our Supercritical CO2 technology which is a low heat, hexane-­free process. With 300mg of DHA and 1.5mg of Astaxanthin in just two mini softgels, VeganDHAŽ is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a plant-­based option to experience the benefits of this important Omega-­3 fatty acid.
  28. Are Minami products clinically studied?
    A: Yes, Minami NutritionŽ products have been the subject of 11 clinical studies.
  29. Are Minami NutritionŽ products vegetarian?
    A: No, Minami oils are sourced from fish. However, VeganDHAŽ is a Vegan/Vegetarian formula sourced from marine algae.
  30. Are Minami NutritionŽ products Dairy Free?
    A: Minami NutritionŽ products do not include dairy.
  31. Are Minami NutritionŽ products Gluten Free?
    A: Minami NutritionŽ products do not include gluten-­containing ingredients.
  32. Do Minami NutritionŽ products contain soy?
    A: Yes;; mixed tocopherols sourced from non GMO soy bean oil are used as antioxidant protection for the oils. For this reason, there may be traces of soy in Minami products.
  33. Why are mixed tocopherols better than alpha-­tocopherol or Vitamin E?
    A: Other tocopherols, beta, delta and most importantly gamma, are related but distinct compounds with a different antioxidant range, enhancing the protective activity of alpha-­ tocopherol.
  34. Are Minami NutritionŽ products Kosher?
    A: No. Minami NutritionŽ products are not Kosher certified.
  35. Do Minami NutritionŽ products contain filler ingredients, artificial colors or preservatives?
    A: No. Minami NutritionŽ products do not contain any fillers or artificial ingredients.
  36. What is the shelf life of Minami products?
    A: All Minami products have a shelf life of 2 years unopened.
  37. Do Minami products require refrigeration?
    A: No, but we recommend you store Minami products in a dark, cool, dry place (max 77° F).
  38. Are there any cautions or contraindications for Minami products?
    A: CAUTION: As with any dietary supplement, consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, allergic to iodine, use blood thinners, anticipate surgery, take medication on a regular basis or are otherwise under medical supervision.
  39. What kind of gelatin is used in Minami products?
    A: Minami uses either Tilapia (fish) gelatin or Halal-­certified bovine gelatin for all products except VeganDHAŽ. In VeganDHAŽ Gluten-­free starch is used, this starch is primarily potato starch because potato allergy is rare.
  40. What is the suggested usage for Minami formulas?
    A: Minami products are so highly concentrated that you only need one or two softgels per day. With other leading brands you need to take 3, 4, 5, or even 6 capsules of fish oil to achieve our high concentration formulas
    Minami Product Usage
    PLATINUM 1 daily
    CardiO-­3Ž 1 daily
    MorEPAŽ 1 daily
    PLUSEPAŽ 1 daily
    MorDHAŽ 1 daily
    MorO-­3™ 2 daily
    VeganDHAŽ 2 daily
    PlusKenkOŽ 1 daily
    MorEPAŽ MINIs 2 daily
    MorDHAŽ MINIs 1 daily
    MorEPAŽ Chewable 2 daily
  41. Should someone take more servings than recommended of any Minami product?
    A: We recommend that you follow label suggested use to get the optimum benefits from these highly concentrated oils. However consult your practitioner who will be able to advise you as to whether you will benefit from taking more than the recommended dosage. As all fish oils have blood thinning properties, it is important to check with your doctor first.
  42. Are Minami softgels enteric coated?
    A: No, Minami softgels are encapsulated in either fish gelatin or Halal-­certified bovine gelatin. Capsules are designed to resist stomach enzymes and acids, ensuring that the oil inside reaches the lower part of the intestine. Minami does not use enteric coating because it is not natural or necessary.
  43. Is Minami NutritionŽ a sustainable company?
    A: Minami only uses abundant, sustainable fish species that are subject to stringent fishing quotas. Minami fish oils are processed in unique energy-­efficient facilities, reusing all by-­products throughout the entire process. Over 95% of the CO2 used during processing is recycled. All excess oils not used for product are converted into energy which powers the facility and the local community. The Omega-­3 fatty acids in Minami oils are extracted using Supercritical Dual-­Process CO2 technology requiring less heat and energy output, as well as no harsh chemical solvents.
  44. What is EMAS?
    A: Minami nutrition is the only Omega-­3 fish oil manufacturer to receive EMAS (Eco-­Management and Audit Scheme) certification, a stringent European environmental standard that audits everything from fish sourcing to the ink on the packaging.
  45. Why is the NPF logo on the Minami cartons?
    A: For every bottle of Minami adult product purchased, Minami proudly makes a donation to the leading nonprofit dedicated to research and education of Parkinson Disease, the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF). www.parkinson.org.


†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure prevent any disease.



References:
Richardson, AJ, Montgomery P. The Oxford-­Durham study: a randomized, controlled trial of dietary supplements with fatty acids in children with developmental coordination disorder. Pediatrics 2005; 115(5): 1360-­6
Richardson AJ. Clinical trials of fatty acid treatment in ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and the autistic spectrum. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2004; 70(4): 383-­90.
Hibbeln JR. Seafood consumption, the DHZ content of mothers' milk and prevalence rates of postpartum depression: a cross-­national ecological analysis. J Affect Disord 2002; 69(1-­3): 15-­29.
De Vriese SR, Christophe AB, Maes M. Lowered serum n-­3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels predict the occurrence of postpartum depression: further evidence that lowered n-­PUFAs are related to major depression. Life Sci 2003; 73: 3181-­7.
Clandinin MT, VanAerde J. Formula supplementation and growth. Pediatrics 2003; 112(6 Pt 1): 1456-­8; author reply 1456-­8.

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