Givaudan introduces ingredient for stress management
Zensera, a patent-pending extract of lemon balm that promotes composure and cognitive function under stress, has been introduced by Givaudan.
In nutraceutical applications, Zensera offers a same-day health benefit at a modest dosage of 300 mg. This clean-label component is also appropriate for some beverages because of its solubility, light flavour, and colour.
“Givaudan is dedicated to helping our customers meet the wellness needs of consumers with rigorously researched natural ingredients,” said Timothée Olagne, head of marketing, health & functional solutions at Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing. “With 70% of adults in the US feeling overwhelmed by work and daily responsibilities (source: American Psychological Association (2020) ‘Stress in AmericaTM 2020. A National Mental Health Crisis’, Available online (accessed 25 April 2025)), and 37% struggling to take action when stressed (source: American Psychological Association (2022) ‘Stress in America 2022: Concerned for the future, beset by inflation’, available online (accessed 25 April 2025), Zensera provides brands with the opportunity to support consumers when stress gets in the way.”
According to Givaudan, clinically substantiated, Zensera offers a scientifically backed and convenient natural ingredient with:
- Optimised potency. Zensera was developed through careful compound screening and is made using a patent-pending process to deliver maximum effectiveness and applicability.
- Low dose efficacy Consumers can experience benefits of Zensera with just a single dose of 300 mg (Givaudan, data on file, publication in process)
- Proven benefits in a randomised clinical trial (RCT), 106 moderately stressed but otherwise healthy subjects were given either 300 mg of Zensera or a placebo. After performing tasks designed to simulate a stressful day, the results showed significant differences in cognitive performance1 in areas such as attention, alertness, focus and problem-solving compared to placebo.
Givaudan will be showcasing Zensera at Vitafoods 2025, in Barcelona, Spain, where the ingredient will be unveiled during a presentation titled “A New Approach to Stress Management” at the New Ingredients Theatre on Monday, 21st May, at 16:30 (CEST).
Attendees are invited to visit the Givaudan stand 3J54 for an exclusive tasting of Zensera. They can also speak with Givaudan experts to learn more about how this groundbreaking lemon balm extract can help consumers support calmness and cognitive performance under stress.
