Small but mighty: Microencapsulation technology for nutraceuticals

Written by Lubrizol Life Science.

Over 300 enzymatic reactions within the body require magnesium, yet studies show that up to 50% of North Americans and Europeans are deficient. Magnesium facilitates hormone balance, enzyme activity and neurotransmitter function that regulates mood and supports stress relief, providing much sought-after cognitive benefits. The prospect of better mental health and improved cognition are further influencing consumers to reach for magnesium supplements.

Meanwhile, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. A 2021 study showed 1.92 billion people globally, and up to 33% of Europeans suffered from low iron levels. Maintaining adequate iron levels is crucial for health – iron deficiency can lead to health problems such as anemia and a weakened immune system.

At Vitafoods Europe 2024, Lubrizol showcased two innovative mineral sources: MAGSHAPE^TM magnesium microcapsules and LIPOFER^TM iron microcapsules. These can help to support nutraceutical manufacturers in creating in-demand, on-trend supplements that address both consumer and formulator needs.

Consumer trends are changing

Consumers are taking nutrition into their own hands – in the form of supplements. 47% and 10% of supplement launches in 2023 contained magnesium and iron, respectively. The global market for nutraceuticals is expected to reach $1,068 billion by 2032 at a CAGR of 8.20%, and that’s not the only way the market is changing.

Lubrizol’s Nutraceuticals Global Marketing Manager, Isabel Gomez, explains: “Tablets and capsules are the classic format, but we’re seeing an increase in demand for powders and gummies. Consumers want easy-to-consume formats, with sensory appeal and science-backed ingredients. Currently, non-pill formats make up over 60% of the market, with gummies topping the charts.”

The able iron for able formulations

In line with the increased popularity of non-pill formats seen on the market, iron gummies are a popular choice for iron supplements. However, to be successful, formulators need to overcome poor bioavailability, metallic taste and other unpleasant side-effects such as stomach upset, constipation and nausea. Iron gummies are typically fortified with iron salts such as ferrous fumarate, but these salts are often the cause of the negative side-effects. There is a need for solutions that can enable in-demand gummies optimized for the consumer experience.

Fortunately, Lubrizol has a solution: LIPOFER™ iron microcapsules technology, which provides benefits for both nutraceutical manufacturers and consumers.

Formulators are supported at every stage of their product development, combining technological added-value ingredients with Lubrizol’s fantastic applications expertise.

Formulations can benefit from functional properties such as:

These technical advantages enable the development of stable products with lower overages. The result: an iron-enriched product with optimal performance.

With LIPOFER™ technology formulations consumers can enjoy:

Unleashing magnesium formulations for holistic health

Iron isn’t the only mineral that poses a challenge to formulators. Magnesium supplements often have a bitter taste and unpleasant texture. Bioavailability issues mean magnesium tablets are often uncomfortably large and many consumers struggle with swallowing them. Additionally, multiple tablets may need to be taken to achieve sufficient dosage quantities, which is inconvenient.

As formulators strive to meet consumer demands for magnesium, Lubrizol’s MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules provide a reliable and effective solution. “MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules have a competitive advantage,” says Gomez. “We can provide highly concentrated magnesium with better absorption in the body and better organoleptic stability.”

MAGSHAPE™ magnesium particles are micronized and microencapsulated to minimize metallic taste and increase bioavailability, making biological magnesium delivery more effective. Another distinguishing feature of MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules is their versatility. Enabled by favorable physical properties, MAGSHAPE™ microcapsule technologies adapt easily to different delivery formats including:

This positions MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules as the perfect choice for formulators looking to provide superior, convenient, and consumer-centric products.

Lubrizol’s nutraceuticals offering reflects the company’s scientific expertise and consumer-centric approach. Visit the website to learn how Lubrizol can be your partner for data-driven and consumer-friendly nutraceutical innovation.