FARGO, N.D. – When it comes to rigorous scientific testing, many companies that offer vitamins and supplements have simply missed the mark. So says Krishna Rajendran, founder of Karallief, an herbal supplement company focused specifically on providing science-based herbal formulas that promote health and wellness. Swanson Health, he says, isn’t your average company.

“When you look at scientific evidence with respect to many of the products currently on the market, it’s either nonexistent or just basic stuff,” he explained. “We partnered with Swanson because, like us, they’re committed to providing consumers with more than just marketing.”

Thus, was born a partnership between the two companies resulting in Karallief’s clinically tested herbal formula, KaraHeart.

“Our Red Yeast Rice supplement now includes KaraHeart, which is clinically proven to help maintain normal cholesterol,” said Erin Del Ponte, SVP of Marketing for Swanson. “This is a unique offering in the marketplace and it’s something we’re extremely proud of.”

Rajendran said the proprietary herbal formula isn’t meant to replace things like statins for those with serious heart problems. Rather, it’s intended for those who want to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

“Ideally, this is for anyone ranging in age from 40 to 60 or 70 who has good cholesterol numbers but worries about maintaining those numbers as they age,” he explained.

Del Ponte said that while Swanson has long relied on science as a basis for the products it chooses to sell, this particular collaboration with Karallief is unique.

“In some ways it’s a game changer in the sense that you don’t normally see the levels of testing being employed by Karallief,” she said. “We have appreciated their shared commitment to pushing the science envelope when it comes to vitamins and supplements.”

Rajendran said often, it’s a question of companies not wanting to invest the dollars in the type of research necessary to quantify a products efficacy.

“62 percent of consumers say they value clinical studies in supplements, yet so few are doing it,” he lamented. “I value personal health so the additional investment to do this the right way has been well worth it.”

Swanson is currently the only company of its kind partnering with Karallief and Del Ponte said that’s a source of pride.

“We recently refreshed our brand with the tagline ‘You Be Well, Now,’” she said. “What better way to live that commitment than through the power of science?”