TORRANCE, Calif., December 3, 2007 -- Martin Bauer (MB) North America has successfully launched its OpunDia(TM) line, which includes a proprietary extract of the pads and fruit of Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear cactus) for use in dietary supplements, foods and beverages to support healthy blood glucose levels. OpunDia extract has been shown in several in-vivo animal studies to be effective in reducing blood glucose levels by as much as 20 percent. Due to these positive results, OpunDia extract is currently the subject of a 16-week, double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study being conducted by a leading U.S.-based research university to determine its ability to support healthy blood glucose levels in humans.

"Using OpunDia extract to help maintain healthy blood glucose levels in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise could be a valuable tool for the hundreds of millions of individuals worldwide who need to care about their blood sugar," stated Stefan Wypyszyk, vice president of marketing, MB North America. "Our OpunDia extract offers manufacturers an ingredient for their glucose health products that is supported by modern-day science, as well as centuries of historical use."

Opuntia ficus-indica has a long history in Mexico and South and Central America of use in managing blood glucose levels, and was used as a food as early as 9,000 years ago. Numerous published studies have confirmed the safety of consuming Opuntia. OpunDia is produced from Opuntia ficus-indica that is cultivated in Northern California under Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) guidelines and is manufactured in a EU Pharmaceutical Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certified facility. MB North America currently has patents pending for the extract in both the EU and U.S. Additionally, OpunDia is water-soluble, made from both the pads and the fruit of the cactus and has a low recommended dosage of 200-400 milligrams. By comparison, other cactus products available on the market are not water-soluble and published studies indicate a dose as high as 250-500 grams.

Also available as part of the OpunDia line is a fresh fruit puree made from the pears of the Opuntia ficus-indica that offers manufacturers a potent, antioxidant-rich way to deliver this food in other foods and beverages. The OpunDia fruit puree is processed from ripe, wholesome fruit that is washed and graded, screened to remove seeds, pasteurized and then packed into steel 55-gallon drums and flash-frozen to ensure freshness.

Martin Bauer is the world's largest botanical supplier, including raw materials, bulk processing, finished herb powders and tea cuts. From cultivation and acquisition to production and laboratory services, Martin Bauer offers its customers worldwide access to a wealth of resources and more than 150 years experience in the industry. MB North America is one of Martin Bauer's 15 subsidiaries worldwide. With multiple production facilities and warehouse locations, Martin Bauer customers are protected from potential product damage or supply risk. For more information visit www.mbnorthamerica.com.

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