The new ingredient named 'Capsudar D3 1000E' delivers 1 million IU/g of vitamin D3 (2.5% of that of pure vitamin D3) freeing up more “space” for the formulation of products with other active ingredients.
The ingredient owes its high concentration to Capsudar, Lycored’s unique precision microencapsulation technology which turns fragile, volatile and easy-to-spoil ingredients into stable powders.
Ordinarily, vitamin D3 oxidizes easily, is sensitive to light and needs to be kept in a vacuum in the dark. With the Capsudar technology a core of calcium phosphate is spray-coated with a layer of vitamin D3 and both are surrounded by a protective layer enabling the ingredients to remain viable throughout processing, packaging and storage.
The product provides 81mg towards a 1g daily dose of calcium and can be partnered with magnesium and vitamin K - synergistic pairings for which there is a wealth of scientific backing.
Taking vitamins D and K with calcium has been found to be more effective than taking calcium alone and magnesium has been shown to assist in the activation of vitamin D. What's more, a combination of calcium and vitamin D has been recommended in populations such as seniors to reduce the risk of fractures.
Christiane Lippert, Global Product Manager, Vitamins, at Lycored, says the pandemic has spotlighted the role of vitamin D in immune health, as groups most likely to be deficient have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Lockdowns have also increased interest as people have been conscious of the fact they are spending more time indoors, she says.
“One of the effects of the pandemic – and lockdowns – has been a surge in demand for vitamin D. It’s a micronutrient that works best in combinations with other vitamins and minerals, so we set out to develop a product that would deliver maximum synergy between active ingredients," says Lippert.
"Thanks to our Capsudar encapsulation technology, we were able to create a powerful, super-concentrated D3 that overcomes formulation challenges and offers opportunities for fabulous pairings with a range of other actives.”
Available in all global markets, the product is suitable for hard shell and tablet applications. With a short ingredient list, it is free from silicon dioxide, maltodextrin, carbohydrate and sugar as well as being kosher, halal and vegetarian.