Givaudan has reported encouraging findings from a recent open-label clinical study, demonstrating that its patented American ginseng extract, Cereboost, can significantly enhance driving performance. Conducted in collaboration with Michigan State University and PitFit Inc, a leading training facility for professional racecar drivers in Indianapolis, the study offers compelling insights for food and beverage manufacturers aiming to develop high-performance cognitive products.
The research assessed the effects of two weeks of Cereboost supplementation on the reaction time and driving metrics of professional racecar drivers — a group that demands exceptional focus and rapid decision-making capabilities. Results indicated substantial improvements, with drivers experiencing a reduction of three seconds in their fastest lap times and exhibiting faster throttle response on corners, suggesting enhanced real-time reaction and decision-making speed. These findings validate Cereboost’s potential to support cognitive performance in demanding real-world environments.
Additionally, subjective feedback from the drivers was overwhelmingly positive, with 94% agreeing that Cereboost effectively enhanced their focus, and 91% noting quicker perceived effects compared to other products they had previously used. Jim Leo, CEO of PitFit, remarked, “Cereboost was an obvious choice, as it’s backed by peer-reviewed research to support attention and focus. As the industry leader in human performance coaching for motorsports, PitFit has always taken a proactive approach to researching anything that might improve our clients’ performance.”
The study’s success provides manufacturers with confidence in formulating products around Cereboost, a pivotal ingredient in the expanding “Mind & Energy” category. Romain Le Cozannet, mind & energy category technical leader at Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing, commented, “Working with Michigan State University and PitFit gave us the opportunity to evaluate the real-world benefits of an already clinically studied ingredient and understand how athlete drivers perceived its effect, getting us closer to understanding consumer perception.”
The data reinforces Cereboost’s core benefit proposition: think faster, perform better. This presents a clear value proposition for functional beverages, sports nutrition, and energy products seeking a performance edge. Full results of the new study are available online, along with a comprehensive review of all Cereboost clinical studies.
