In today’s NewsFlash Roundup, gadgets, biotech manufacturing and, as always, fruit juices.  

• Genzyme drug shortage aided by Israeli firm

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has contacted Israel-based Protalix BioTherapeutics Inc. about the possibility of initiating a treatment protocol for use of its Phase 3 drug target for Gaucher’s disease. The drug has not yet been approved for use in the U.S. but would be used to blunt the effect that the Cerezyme shortage is having on patients, who have no other approved treatment options.

• NMT Medical eyes conservative plans amid slow sales

The Boston-based company (Nasdaq: NMTI) said revenue for the second quarter that ended June 30 will be around $3.2 million, down from the $3.8 million to $4.3 million predicted in May.

• From the print edition: Ocean Spray, Welch’s pursuing scientific claims of fruits

Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc. has won a patent for a method of extracting oil from the tiny seeds of cranberries, which the patent claims can be used for “treating or reducing the occurrence of breast cancer,” among other diseases. It’s a bold claim, but when asked if he believes the yellowish oil that smells and tastes faintly of cranberries could really have that power, inventor Wassef Nawar says, “Absolutely.” (more…)