Atrium Innovations Announces Multi-year Commitment to Nutrition Research

QUEBEC CITY, June 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Atrium Innovations Inc. (TSX: ATB), a recognized leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of professionally endorsed, science-based dietary supplements for the health and nutrition industry, today announced a multi-year commitment to nutrition research and to a comprehensive program focusing on metabolic syndrome.  This global effort will be conducted in collaboration with a strategic partner, the Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (INAF).  The total current funding for related projects planned and in progress is over $5 million, and includes partial support from governmental agencies.

"We have always believed in the importance of research.  This investment provides further indication of the depth of our commitment," said Pierre Fitzgibbon, President and CEO.  "Applying a more sophisticated science-based approach to our whole spectrum of products, we have the ability to positively affect the quality of life of people by helping them maintain their health and prevent serious diseases."

Atrium's research involves gaining a better understanding of metabolic syndrome and investigating the impact of nutrition on the prevention and treatment of silent inflammation associated with this condition.  More specifically, its research will emphasize the health benefits of small fruits, the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of specific fish oil fractions in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, probiotics, and systemic enzyme therapy in the management of inflammation, and health promotion.

"We have a duty to ensure that health care professionals, their patients, and health-conscious consumers have access to safe and effective nutritional products," said Dr. Barry W. Ritz, Vice President, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs.  "We have aligned ourselves with a strategic academic partner to conduct the most comprehensive program of cutting-edge research on the role of nutritional therapies in managing metabolic syndrome."

Based at Universite Laval, INAF is among the largest research centers in the world, dedicating all of its research efforts to advancing knowledge in the area of nutrition and health, with an expertise in studying functional food ingredients and dietary supplements.  It is widely recognized in Canada and abroad for its innovative and targeted approach, as well as for the quality of its research and the expertise of its members.

Learn more about Atrium Innovations' commitment to better health through research at:

http://research.atrium-innovations.com

About Atrium Innovations

Atrium Innovations Inc. is a globally recognized leader in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative, science-based dietary supplements endorsed by health professionals.  The Company distributes its extensive portfolio of products mainly in the healthcare practitioner and health food and specialized store channels, with a primary focus in North America and Europe.  Atrium is at the forefront of science, innovation and education in the dietary supplement industry.  The Company has over 1,000 employees and operates seven manufacturing facilities.  Additional information is available at www.atrium-innovations.com.

About INAF

The Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods of Universite Laval (INAF), in Quebec City, is comprised of more than 70 researchers from Universite Laval and eight other major research institutions in the Province of Quebec.  INAF leads an innovative, multidisciplinary research program on the complex interactions between food components, nutrition and health and supports the development of safe and effective food products to improve health and prevent chronic disease.

About metabolic syndrome

A person is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome when he or she displays a combination of medical conditions known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes. Such medical conditions include obesity, excess weight, belly fat, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, hypertension, high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels, as well as pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative states.  Metabolic syndrome has been identified as a major public health crisis worldwide, affecting one in five people and up to 25% of the American population, according to some studies.

SOURCE Atrium Innovations Inc.