Lubrizol has introduced a prototype formulation including MAGSHAPE microcapsules.
The magnesium nutraceutical is in a fast-melt powdered stick form for on-the-go convenience for active consumers.
The company has formulated the prototype to be more palatable than traditional magnesium-based ingredients in terms of texture and taste.
The soluble sticks deliver a single 250mg dose of magnesium, which is incorporated into a 1.5g sachet.
This novel dosage form allows dietary supplement developers to utilise MAGSHAPE outside of tablets and chewables, which were previously available.
“Orosoluble powders that can deliver uniform palatable doses of magnesium require significant
expertise to develop successfully,” explains Alan Connolly, Lubrizol’s R&D Manager.
“It involves striking the right balance between particle size, solubility, taste, and flowability. Too large a particle size will result in poor dispersion in the mouth leading to a gritty, unpleasant texture. However, even the smallest particle will not behave as expected if it displays poor orosolubility.”
Magnesium is emerging as a hero ingredient in promoting mental and muscular relaxation, while also playing a role in balancing electrolytes in the body.
Isabel Gómez, Global Marketing Manager for Lubrizol's Nutraceutical business, added: “Obtaining the daily recommended dose of magnesium can be burdensome, whether due to large pill sizes, their tendency to leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth, or gut discomfort, which consequently indicates poor absorption.”
“MAGSHAPE magnesium ingredient was uniquely designed to ease the routine of supplementing by concentrating a potent dose of magnesium into the smallest serving while also being microencapsulated to ensure its absorption and minimise side effects.”
The microencapsulation technology in MAGSHAPE provides micronised magnesium oxide particles with a wider surface.
This helps to deliver a stable source of magnesium that is absorbed along the length of the intestinal tract, while also reducing the side effects associated with magnesium supplementation.