Nutratech Files Patent Infringement Suit Against Syntech

WEST CALDWELL, N.J.—In early June, Nutratech Inc. filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court, Central District of California, against Syntech International, a Walnut, Calif.-based ingredient supplier, alleging Syntech is selling Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) in violation of Nutratech’s U.S. patents. Specifically, the lawsuit claims Syntech is marketing/selling generic bitter orange material for patented uses including stimulating thermogenesis, reducing weight, increasing lean muscle mass and suppressing appetite.

Bob Green, president of Nutratech, said in addition to violation of the patents, the company is concerned that selling generic bitter orange for health benefits seen in studies with the patented material Advantra Z® could pose a consumer health risk. “Nutratech is a research-based company,” Green said.“We cannot permit marketers and sellers of scientifically unsupported raw materials to claim that their generic products offer the same quality and safety as patented Advantra Z. While we would prefer to reach an accord with these suppliers short of litigation, we will take whatever steps are necessary to defend and protect our brand and ensure our customers’ competitive advantage in the marketplace.”