The nutraceutical industry is full of innovation—but even the most promising formulations can fall short due to fundamental challenges in stability, absorption, and sensory appeal. From fish oil that oxidizes and develops off-flavors, to probiotics that lose viability before reaching the shelf, and vitamin C that rapidly degrades—these persistent issues continue to undermine product performance and consumer trust.
Lubrizol addresses these challenges with a science-driven approach rooted in deep technical expertise. Rather than masking problems with marketing, Lubrizol targets the root causes of supplement failure. Their advanced microencapsulation technologies and branded active ingredients are specifically engineered to improve stability, bioavailability, and consumer experience, making them a trusted partner for brands that prioritize efficacy and innovation.
The Science of Microencapsulation
Microencapsulation is a transformative technology that enhances the performance, stability, and consumer experience of sensitive active ingredients, especially minerals and phytochemicals that are prone to degradation, poor absorption, or unpleasant sensory characteristics. By surrounding each particle with a protective matrix, microencapsulation shields these actives from environmental stressors and improves their functionality in the body.
Key Benefits for Minerals and Phytochemicals:
- Improved Stability: Microencapsulation protects ingredients like iron, magnesium, caffeine, curcumin, and phytosterols from oxidation, moisture, and interactions with other compounds—ensuring longer shelf life and consistent potency.
- Enhanced Bioavailability: Technologies such as LIPOFER™ microcapsules (iron), MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules (magnesium), NEWCAFF™ microcapsules (caffeine), and CURCUSHINE™ microcapsules (curcumin) use microencapsulation to significantly improve absorption and efficacy in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Reduced Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Encapsulation helps minimize common side effects such as gastric irritation, especially with minerals like iron and magnesium.
- Better Taste and Dispersibility: Encapsulated actives have improved organoleptic properties, making them easier to incorporate into consumer-friendly formats like gummies, powders, and functional beverages.
- Formulation Flexibility: Microencapsulated ingredients are more stable and less reactive, allowing for more complex and innovative product formulations with lower overages.
- Targeted and Sustained Release: Microencapsulation enables precise control over nutrient release. For example, NEWCAFF™ microcapsules deliver caffeine gradually over time, supporting sustained energy without the typical crash associated with conventional caffeine sources. Similarly, LIPOPHYTOL™ microcapsules (phytosterols) benefit from controlled release to support optimal absorption and efficacy.
Applications in Nutraceutical Products
Lubrizol’s microencapsulation technologies and branded ingredients are enabling innovation across a wide range of nutraceutical categories.
Dietary Supplements
Lubrizol’s technologies support a variety of supplement formats:
- Immediate and time-release capsules and tablets for nutrient delivery
- Chewables with improved taste and texture
- Effervescent tablets and powders that dissolve cleanly without grittiness
LIPOFER™ microcapsules are available in multiple grades tailored for specific applications, such as:
- LIPOFER™ NA Dispersible Plus for liquid applications
- LIPOFER™ NA Granulated for tablets and capsules
- LIPOFER™ Infant for pediatric drops and syrups
Sports Nutrition
Electrolyte and mineral powders benefit from microencapsulation that improve solubility and taste. MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules deliver highly bioavailable magnesium in formats like stick packs, sachets, and reconstituted sports drinks.
Conclusion & Partnership Opportunity
Lubrizol’s science-backed technologies solve the core challenges of nutraceutical formulation—stability, taste, and absorption. Their microencapsulation and active ingredient platforms empower brands to create products that deliver real consumer value.
To bring these innovations to market successfully, manufacturers need partners who understand both science and the production realities. Paragon Laboratories offers expertise and infrastructure to turn Lubrizol’s advanced ingredients into high-performance finished products.
Ready to innovate?
Contact Paragon Laboratories to explore how Lubrizol’s technologies can elevate your next product launch.