Nutratech, Syntech Settle Patent Infringement Suit

WEST CALDWELL, N.J.Nutratech Inc. announced it reached a settlement with Syntech (SSPF) International Inc. in a lawsuit over SSPFs sale of Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) extract in violation of Nutratechs patents. SSPF agreed to a permanent injunction, immediately ceasing import and sale of bitter orange extract, will pay damages to Nutratech based on past infringement, and acknowledged the validity and infringement of U.S. patents exclusively licensed to Nutratech for use of Citrus aurantium extract for thermogenesis and weight loss. Nutratech supplies the proprietary bitter orange extract Advantra Z®.

Although this has been a long battle, the effort was worth it to demonstrate the value of these patents and to protect the marketing advantage of our customers, whose products contain the well-researched and safe Advantra Z branded ingredient, said Bob Green, president of Nutratech (www.NutratechInc.com). We have made a significant investment in both research and product development to ensure that our customers can reap all the benefits of a patented, scientifically supported ingredient.

The patents (Nos. 6,224,873; 6,316,499; 6,340,481; and 6,340,482) are owned by Zhishin Capital LLC and licensed exclusively to Nutratech. They relate to the use of Citrus aurantium, bitter orange or citrus extracts for, but not limited to: stimulating thermogenesis, reducing weight, increasing lean muscle mass in relation to total body mass, improving athletic performance, and suppressing appetite.