Lubrizol’s latest sample formulation, including MAGSHAPE™ microcapsules, delivers bioavailable magnesium in a small but potent dose.
The prototype samples are orosoluble sticks that deliver a single dose of 250mg elemental magnesium (the upper limit of magnesium in a food supplement recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)) neatly packed in a small 1.5g sachet of powder. This new prototype formulation presents another opportunity to utilize the MAGSHAPE magnesium ingredient in another format, in addition to tablets and chewables.
“Orosoluble powders that can deliver uniform palatable doses of magnesium require significant expertise to develop successfully,” explains Alan Connolly, Lubrizol 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.”
Also known as the mindfulness mineral, magnesium is emerging as a hero ingredient used to melt away stress and promote muscle relaxation. It is also EFSA-approved for its crucial role in normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal muscle function, protein synthesis and electrolyte balance. It also contributes to a reduction in tiredness and fatigue, making this mineral increasingly attractive for those leading active lifestyles, particularly athletes.
“Magnesium supplementation is widely embraced to bridge some nutritional gaps,” asserts Isabel Gómez, Global Marketing Manager for Lubrizol Nutraceutical business. “However, obtaining the daily recommended dose 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 minimize side effects.”
The proprietary microencapsulation technology in the MAGSHAPE ingredient provides micronized magnesium oxide particles with a wider surface area. This helps to deliver a stable source of magnesium that is more slowly absorbed by the intestinal tract and reduces common unpleasant side effects associated with magnesium supplementation.
Moreover, the MAGSHAPE microencapsulated magnesium allows for versatile and more appealing consumption formats. Its fluid consistency and water dispersible coating make it suitable for incorporation into a wide variety of food matrices.”
“MAGSHAPE ingredient is crafted from magnesium oxide which is the most concentrated form of magnesium. Its microencapsulation is designed to support gradual assimilation throughout the entire digestive system so that more gets into the blood stream to help replenish and maintain healthy magnesium levels in human cells and bones,” concludes Gómez. “A bioavailability study is in the pipeline to confirm its bioactivity in the body.”
About Lubrizol Nutraceuticals
The Nutraceuticals arm of Lubrizol specializes in added-value active ingredients, enabling differentiated nutraceutical solutions backed by science. Its core technology is strength in microencapsulation applied to botanical and mineral ingredients that allow its customers to develop better-for-you products with leading performance claims.
For more information, visit www.lubrizol.com/Health/Nutraceuticals.
About The Lubrizol Corporation
The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a specialty chemical company whose science delivers sustainable solutions to advance mobility, improve well-being, and enhance modern life. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol owns and operates more than 100 manufacturing facilities, sales, and technical offices around the world and has more than 8,000 employees. For more information, visit www.Lubrizol.com.
