HTBA set to launch Leanara® for muscle and energy support to meet demands of growing GLP-1 companion market

HTBA will present Leanara® alongside its wider portfolio of nature-led, science-backed flavonoids and active B12 solutions at stand 5A14 during Vitafoods Europe, 5–7 May.

HealthTech Bio Actives (HTBA), a leading innovator in citrus flavonoids and active forms of vitamin B12 for health and nutrition, is set to launch an innovative new GLP-1 companion ingredient at Vitafoods Europe 2026. At stand #5A14, the company will unveil Leanara®, a new dual effect companion ingredient designed to help consumers on their GLP-1 journey by supporting muscle mass and energy levels. As part of its exciting event program, HTBA will also showcase its wider portfolio of health ingredients, created to transform the power of nature into high-quality solutions brands can trust. 

Introducing Leanara®: the dual effect companion ingredient

“Interest in GLP‑1 weight loss therapies is already booming in the USA, and the ripple effect is reaching Europe now too, with an estimated 4.9 million British adults having recently used or expressed interest in GLP-1 medications,[i] comments Tom D’Hoore, Chief Commercial Officer at HTBA. While these therapies can deliver significant reductions in body weight, research suggests that 40–60% of this loss may come from lean muscle mass if not actively managed. [ii] This is where functional foods and supplements can play a key role, helping GLP-1 users maintain strength and vitality throughout their weight loss journey.”

To address this growing need, HTBA has developed Leanara®, a dual effect companion ingredient that combines proprietary bioflavonoids with highly bioavailable vitamin B12 to support lean muscle development and reduce fatigue, all while optimizing metabolism.[iii],[iv],[v],[vi] For brands, this represents an exciting opportunity to explore new GLP-1 companion supplement formulations that go beyond weight loss to deliver sustainable health outcomes.

HTBA will further spotlight the market opportunity at Vitafoods Europe in its presentation, “Beyond weight loss: protect lean muscle and energy for GLP-1 users,” taking place on Tuesday, 5 May, from 4:00 PM to 4:25 PM at the New Ingredients Theatre (3D258). Dr Teresa Pellicer, Biotechnology Manager at HTBA, will explore the physiological challenges associated with GLP-1 use and explain the science behind Leanara®, showing how targeted nutritional support can help preserve muscle integrity, reduce fatigue and maintain metabolic health during weight loss journeys.

A taste of innovation: powders, chews and gummies

Alongside Leanara®, HTBA will spotlight MecobalActive®, a bioidentical, active form of vitamin B12 for cognitive and physical performance, and DiosVein Forte®, a micronized flavonoid fraction developed to support vascular health, circulation and leg comfort. Visitors are invited to experience the benefits of HTBA’s functional health ingredients first-hand with tasting samples on the stand (#5A14) including: Leanara® mango-flavored powder sticks, MecobalActive® cherry-flavored chewable tablets and DiosVein Forte® mandarin-flavored gummies.

Vitafoods Europe is an ideal platform to introduce Leanara® to the industry and demonstrate how it sits within our wider portfolio of nature-led, science-backed functional health solutions,” adds D’Hoore. “Together with MecobalActive® and DiosVein Forte®, we’re excited to introduce Leanara® to our new and existing partners at this year’s exhibition and we look forward to exploring co-creation opportunities to inspire the future of health and nutrition.

To learn more about HTBA’s portfolio of citrus flavonoids and active forms of vitamin B12, click here or book a meeting at Vitafoods Europe 2026.

 

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