Lubrizol Nutraceuticals has announced that it will showcase a new gummy application concept at this year's Vitafoods Europe show (5-7 May).
The firm said in a release that the new concept would "highlight the formulation possibilities of its Curcushine microcapsules" and "demonstrate how microencapsulated curcumin can perform in industrially relevant gummy formulations."
Each sugar-free pectin gummy contains 100 mg of Curcushine, Lubrizol's proprietary microencapsulated curcumin extract. They are flavoured with natural orange and ginger, which the firm says complement the subtle turmeric flavour in the gummies and are sweetened with maltitol and stevia.
"Beauty and wellbeing are integrating more and more," said Isabel Gómez, Global Marketing Manager for Lubrizol Nutraceuticals.
"And while consumers are taking a proactive approach to maintaining their outer glow and inner comfort, they also want products that are natural and serve as an enjoyable part of their daily routines. The current rise in the prejuvenation trend clearly illustrates this growing demand."
With Curcushine gummies, we've created a nutra-ready concept that is indulgent and connects directly with what consumers are seeking: simple, flavour-forward experiences that can help support radiant and lush-looking skin.
Curcumin, the key bioactive compound in turmeric, is renowned for its anti-ageing and wellness benefits due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These help combat the negative effects of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which contribute to collagen deterioration and skin ageing.
Curcushine is a nutraceutical ingredient made through a patented microencapsulation process, making curcumin water-dispersible and highly bioavailable for use in gummies and other convenient formats.
The new sugar-free gummies will be made from a pectin base, aligning with the trend toward plant-based and reduced-sugar options. Curcushine is also versatile enough for use in gelatin-based formulations and other applications.
Lubrizol added that its technology enables the integration of curcumin into sugar-free snacks and beverages.
This microencapsulation enhances ingredient stability while minimising turmeric's flavour, enabling brands to offer appealing products without sacrificing functionality.
The concept is designed for easy scalability, allowing for smooth industrial production.
"Curcumin is widely recognised for its potential wellbeing and skin-support benefits," Gómez added.
But its poor water solubility and naturally bold flavour have traditionally limited its use in consumer-friendly formats, especially gummies.
"We overcame those challenges by protecting our curcumin formulation inside powerful microcapsules."
A recent clinical study using 63 healthy women demonstrated the benefits of Curcushine as a nutricosmetic.
After six weeks of daily intake, participants showed significant improvements in facial skin, including reduced wrinkles, redness and brown spots, compared with a placebo group.
Those taking Curcushine also experienced enhanced skin luminosity and reduced oxidative stress.
"One of the most exciting outcomes of our formulation trials was how mellow and appealing the flavour became once Curcushine was incorporated through microencapsulation," said Alan Connolly, R&D Manager at Lubrizol.
Curcumin naturally brings a sensory imprint, but encapsulation softens that significantly.
"It allows us to offer a harmonious flavour experience and supports a wider range of fresh flavour concepts — in gummies and beyond — while also enhancing bioavailability."
At the show, Lubrizol will be demonstrating how science, emotion and personalisation can connect to meet diverse consumer needs. The company's stand (#5B12) will include the following:
- A Science Zone, where visitors can discover how microencapsulation technology ensures better bioavailability and stability
- A Corporate Zone, which will showcase Lubrizol's innovation and credibility
- A Sensory Zone, where visitors can sample formats that connect science to pleasure, including glow lattes, gummies and dispersible powders
- A Women's Health Growth Platform, demonstrating how Lubrizol's solutions address real health needs across life stages, including energy, skin glow and menopause support
- A Carousel of Personas, where the experiences of five archetypal women will bring insights to life, demonstrating how personalisation shapes science.
As well as Curcushine, Lubrizol products on show will also include the following:
- Lipofer (microencapsulated iron for superior absorption and wellness)
- Lipophytol (microencapsulated plant sterols for cholesterol reduction)
- Magshape (a bioavailable and highly concentrated magnesium solution that enables higher elemental magnesium delivery while maintaining good tolerability for consumers).
The firm added that prototype samples, flavour recommendations and technical assistance will be available on request.