US ingredient company RIBUS has expanded its production of Nu-FILL, a plant-based excipient designed to replace microcrystalline cellulose in tablets, capsules and stick packs.
As consumer demand for clean-ingredient and organic products increases, pressure is building on supplement manufacturers to meet these standards.
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a good example of this — the synthetic filler is traditionally used in supplements as a filler, binder and anti-caking agent to improve tablet consistency and flow.
It has gained popularity as it is safe and non-allergenic.
However, the ingredient is not permitted in certified organic products, leading to sourcing and cost challenges for manufacturers.
RIBUS is addressing this with Nu-FILL, a rice hull and rice bran-based excipient that the company says matches the performance of traditional fillers while complying with clean-label and organic standards.
After its initial market introduction, RIBUS is expanding Nu-FILL's production to meet rising demand from brands seeking more control around ingredients and formulation flexibility, having successfully fulfilled its first commercial order.
"Manufacturers are navigating increasing complexity as they reformulate to meet both regulatory and consumer expectations, without compromising performance," said Alicia Peirce Kasch, Vice President of RIBUS.
Nu-FILL gives brands a viable path away from MCC and other restricted or less desirable fillers, while maintaining the consistency, scalability and functionality required for modern production.
RIBUS is positioning Nu-FILL as a replacement for MCC, lactose and starch-based fillers in tablets, capsules and single-serve stick packs.
The company said the excipient offers consistent flow, uniform blending and compressibility, enabling efficient production without synthetic additives.
Made from rice hulls, rice bran extract and agave syrup, Nu-FILL is non-soluble and suitable for both conventional and organic formulations. It can be used at a starting ratio of 1:1 with other fillers, providing flexibility based on formulation needs.
The new plant-based ingredient will help brands in dietary supplements, nutraceuticals and functional foods maintain clean-label standards, rely less on costly ingredients and meet consumer demand for natural, transparent products.
"Formulators are being asked to do more with fewer tradeoffs, such as improving label transparency while maintaining performance and cost control," said Kasch.
Nu-FILL delivers across all three, giving brands a dependable way to simplify formulations without sacrificing efficiency or scalability.