Green shell mussel extract continues to defy detractors with evidence of benefits showing up in a second university clinical trial.
A clinical trial conducted by Queensland University has found that the Christchurch produced green shell mussel extract is better than glucosamine for arthritic conditions.
Bromley based manufacturer Aroma NZ sought the 12-week clinical trial involving 38 people to establish the benefits of their product.
“People had been asking us to carry out clinical studies on our product so we went ahead with this landmark trial. We wanted to see how our green shell mussel power compared to glucosamine for people who suffered from joint pain and inflammation,” says Aroma director Ben Winters Jr.
“The study proved overwhelming that the aroma green shell mussel extract significantly helped reduce joint pain and increased joint mobility in patients.
“This was the result we were looking for and confirms that our green shell mussel product definitely contains significant anti-inflammatory properties.’’
The university’s primary clinical investigator in the trial Samantha Coulson 
confirmed that the Christchurch green shell mussel powder “worked quicker and provided better relief ’’ than the glucosamine used in the trial.
“We are so encouraged by these new clinical results that we plan to carry out a larger clinical trials on 140 people with a double-blind placebo that will carry more weight when pitching to pharmaceutical companies,’’ Mr Winters says.
“We have invested heavily in research and development and work closely with the Queensland University and Plant and Food Research on our marine nutraceuticals. Providing solid clinical data sets us apart from our competition as well as being able to supply large volumes all year round. We are the largest freeze drying plant in the southern hemisphere with eight freeze driers,’’ he says.
The Ministry of Primary Industries audits Aroma NZ’s factory on a monthly basis which allows them to export worldwide.
Strict microbiological and heavy metal limits are set in place ensuring only the highest quality freeze-dried health foods reach their consumers.
Today the company exports its green shell muscle extract to 30 countries, including throughout Europe, Australia, USA, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Canada, 
Chile, South Africa, Malaysia, Thailand and the UK.
As well as the mussel extract, Aroma produces green shell mussel oil, shark cartilage powder, oyster powder, paua (abalone) powder, fish protein powder, chondroitin sulphate and marine collagen.
The Winters family has been involved producing essences and flavourings for generations, beginning in Rotterdam before Ben Winters grandfather set up business in Christchurch 61 years ago.
The company stepped into the health food business 25 years ago and today employs 20 people, processing mussel from the Marlborough Sounds.
To view the full report on the clinical trial:
Visit: www.aromanz.com
