Boston, January 17, 2026 – Advenion Nutrition announces the publication of a new peer-reviewed study evaluating Safforce+®, a standardized saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.), in the international journal Nutrients.
What the standardized saffron extract study found
The study investigated the effects of a chemically characterized saffron extract standardized in safranal and crocins on behavioral, neuroendocrine, and metabolic parameters associated with aging. Conducted in an aged animal model, the research observed dose-dependent effects on behaviors related to stress and emotional balance and on recognition memory, alongside modulation of key neuropeptides involved in the body’s normal stress response.
At the mechanistic level, the study reported that Safforce+® influenced hypothalamic and limbic pathways associated with emotional balance, including increased neuropeptide Y (NPY) and reduced corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and hypocretin (HCRT) signaling. These observations were accompanied by lower inflammation-related markers in the prefrontal cortex and by activation of endocannabinoid and paracannabinoid pathways associated with the regulation of mood, sleep, and memory processes.
Beyond the central nervous system, the study also reported favorable effects on hepatic lipid metabolism, supporting the concept that standardized saffron extracts may help maintain metabolic balance during aging.
The publication also addresses longstanding challenges in the saffron market related to variability and adulteration, emphasizing chemical authentication, reproducible extraction, and bioactive standardization. Safforce+® is obtained through controlled aqueous or aqueous–partially alcoholic extraction and processed under GMP conditions in the European Union, ensuring consistency and traceability.
“These findings position Safforce+® as a multi-target, science-backed saffron ingredient with relevance for stress and mood, cognitive performance, sleep-related pathways, and healthy aging,” said Advenion Nutrition. “The study reinforces the importance of standardization and analytical control when translating botanical ingredients into reliable nutraceutical solutions.”
About Safforce+®
Safforce+® is a standardized saffron extract developed by Advenion Nutrition, designed to deliver consistent levels of key bioactives including safranal and crocins. It is intended for use in nutraceutical formulations developed around emotional well-being, cognitive performance, sleep support, and healthy aging.
About Advenion Nutrition
Advenion Nutrition is a science-driven ingredient company focused on developing nutraceutical solutions supported by peer-reviewed research, metabolic and endocrine science, and market-relevant innovation.
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Mery Sanjuan
The research described above was conducted in a preclinical (animal) model and is intended for scientific and product-development audiences. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Safforce+® is an ingredient and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.