The Biomedical Group of Takara Shuzo Co., Ltd. will make a sale of "Agarlet^TM Cocoa" as tablets, a nutritional supplement rich in agaro-oligosaccharides. Sales of "Agarlet^TM Cocoa" will commence on June 25, 2001. Retail price will be 1500 yen for a box containing 30 tablets.

Agaro-oligosaccharide is known to possess anti-oxidation activity as one of several biological functions. Proprietary methods have been used to obtain the agaro-oligosaccharide from agar (Kanten) which is produced from red seaweed. The principle of this action is quite different from anti-oxidants like polyphenols. It can suppress a biochemical overproduction of nitrogen monoxide, one of free oxygen radicals, that is induced by many types of biological stresses. In addition, the supplement can induce the production of hemoxygenase-1 which is induced to protect against oxidative stresses. Carbon monoxide produced by this enzyme functions as a protective substance for cells.

A tablet of "Agarlet^TM Cocoa" contains about 100 mg of agaro-oligosaccharide, and its recommended daily consumption is two to three tablets.

Outline of Product
Name of product: Agarlet^TM Cocoa
Type of product: Food containing agaro-oligosaccharide
Product packaging: 1.3 g of a tablet, 30 tablets per box
Suggested retail price: 1500 yen per box
Distribution areas: To be sold nationwide
Date of release: Sales to commence on June 25, 2001

This article is translated from the press release in Japanese for your convenience.