Softgel innovation: Ayanda encapsulation method combines probiotic with omega 3

26 Apr 2019 --- Ayanda, the European branch of global nutraceutical company Sirio Group, has created an innovative softgel capsule that can contain both active probiotic bacteria and omega 3. Softgel capsules are usually made at high temperatures, a factor that can inhibit high probiotic concentration. Ayanda has secured European patent accreditation for the novel dosage solution, which adds to the company's existing probiotic capabilities in hard capsules, tablets and powder sticks.

“This softgel is the first ever that is able to combine the benefits of probiotics, coupled with omega 3 within a single capsule and has secured a patent through the European Patent Office,” Dr. Dominique Baum, Managing Director at Ayanda, tells NutritionInsight. 

“It opens up many unique combinations for brands in softgel forms with viable probiotic bacteria. Ayanda found a delicate balance to ensure the survival of probiotic bacteria and an intact soft gel capsule,” she notes. 

Ayanda spent ten years developing a gentle approach in encapsulation that raises the survival rate of probiotics. The innovation enables the manufacture of softgel capsules comprising uncoated probiotic bacteria alongside at least one oil – e.g., fish oil with DHA and EPA and vitamins in one single softgel. 

“Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics are some of the more well-documented strains that can be used in this softgel, but it works with many different types. Additionally, this can be combined with omega 3 to contribute to an array of health benefits, such as supporting brain function, eye health, cardiovascular health, gastrointestinal well-being as well as strengthening the immune system,” Baum explains. 

“We are starting with the unborn child and the mother as a potential consumer group, but this product is also suited to all adults thoughtful of preserving vitality, vision and vascular health,” she notes.

The creation of the patented process was achieved by adjusting to the specific characteristics of probiotics, which uniquely minimizes the loss of viable cells during production. Ayanda designed process parameters that dramatically improve survival rates and defined packaging and storage conditions accordingly. 

“With this new technology, we expect to see a large interest from nutraceutical brand owners, as it opens up many possibilities for truly novel products,” Baums says.

Ayanda’s core business is the development and manufacture of complex softgels containing up to ten or more ingredients. This new technology forms part of a wider innovation strategy and corporate culture at Ayanda and Sirio – following the announcement of the company’s enhanced global R&D group in early April – with both European and China teams currently undertaking proactive research on a number of projects. These include the creation of new nutraceutical dosage forms and formulations to help customers advance products to market faster.

“We started this particular project with the simple goal of trying to combine the advantages of omega 3 fatty acids and probiotics in one single softgel capsule. For consumers, there is a clear gap in the market, as at present they need two different dosages,” Baum says

The innovative softgel will be unveiled to the wider market for the first time at Vitafoods Europe in Geneva, Switzerland, May 7-9. 

In January, Sirio Pharma Co Ltd (CDiMO) pegged consumer friendly, “enjoyable dosage forms” as expected to see major contract services growth in 2019. “Pill fatigue” has boosted the popularity of consumer-friendly dosage forms such as sprays, gummies, liquids and even powder formats, in alignment with consumer needs for fast, safe and efficient supplement delivery systems.

Baum says that “enjoyable dosage forms” have been on the rise over the last couple of years and the company has seen that gummy formulations and softgel formulations are popular among both adults and children. This is because they enable a preferential dosage form for a multitude of customers and are easier and more consumer-friendly to ingest than traditional powders or liquids, according to Baum.

Last week, Sirio announced a global collaboration with specialists located in Asia, Europe and the US. Combining the R&D efforts of the company’s scientists and global industry experts, the move aims to help customers bring innovative, safe and effective products to the market. 

By Kristiana Lalou