Innovation is paramount in the CPG industry and can come in many different forms, be it a new flavor, the addition of a functional ingredient in a new format, or even a different type of packaging. There’s plenty to look out for in the industry — and ideas may start with consumer demand, but they are executed through keen product development partnerships. Read on for insights from SPINS.

Probiotics nearly top the best-selling supplements list, but the sector has expanded beyond probiotic bacteria and even beyond traditional gut health and immunity. Standout biotic ingredients among the 250 suppliers and service providers at SupplySide East included prebiotics, postbiotics and probiotics — and three other biotics with benefits beyond the gut. Take a look.

Supplements for sexual enhancement, weight management and sports nutrition/bodybuilding must obtain third-party verification to sell on Amazon, according to a new mandate from the mega-retailer. And, the testing must be done by one of only three Amazon-approved labs. Find out the program’s goals and the details you need to know.

Active nutrition standouts at SupplySide East – slideshow

Natural Products Insider editors hustled through over 2,000 SupplySide East attendees to report on innovations in the rapidly growing space. Highlights include an ingredient researched to boost protein absorption so that end users can experience more benefit from smaller doses — something that could be especially appealing to older consumers struggling to ingest their larger prescribed doses of protein.