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  5. [Case Study] How GTS Nutra developed a stable omega-3 rich supplement without fish oil, using microencapsulated Chia oil and Flaxseed oil

[Case Study] How GTS Nutra developed a stable omega-3 rich supplement without fish oil, using microencapsulated Chia oil and Flaxseed oil


The problem:

 GTS Nutra, specializing in the production of natural dietary supplements, has encountered a growing demand from consumers for omega-3 rich products. Typically, this active ingredient is derived from fish oil from various species, but GTS Nutra does not want to use this ingredient, which presents several disadvantages:

  • Stability issues: Fish oil is highly sensitive to oxidation, leading to a loss of essential nutrients and product quality.
  • Unpleasant taste: Fish oil can alter the final taste of the product, making it hard to mask.
  • Contamination: Fish oil may contain traces of heavy metals and other pollutants, which are not ideal for consumer health.
  • Sustainability: The use of fish for oil extraction is not an environmentally sustainable choice, especially for marine ecosystems' health.

To address these issues, GTS Nutra decided to opt for a mix of chia oil and flaxseed oil, known for their high alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) content, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, with the goal of developing a stable supplement without the above-mentioned disadvantages.

 

The solution attempts:

GTS Nutra faced some difficulties when approaching this mix of ingredients, especially due to the oils' high sensitivity to oxidation. Rapid oxidation, in fact, compromises the taste and nutritional quality of the supplement, reducing its effectiveness.

In the product development study, the following alternatives were considered:

Soft Capsules: Oily ingredients are well-suited for this form. However, this was not considered a viable alternative due to the oils' sensitivity to light, oxygen, and heat. To prevent oxidation, it would be necessary to package the product in opaque blisters or use materials that block UV rays.

Hard Capsules: Capsules are not completely impermeable, so the oil could still oxidize over time. Additionally, the liquid form makes it challenging to handle the oil mix, and it slows down the production process, leading to higher manufacturing costs.

Gelatin Capsules with Gelled Oil: The gelation process is complex and could affect the final product's consistency. There is a greater difficulty in ensuring even distribution of the nutrient if gelation is uneven. Potential reduced bioavailability, as gelation could slow digestion and absorption.

 

The winning solution: Microencapsulation of Chia and Flaxseed Oil

GTS Nutra decided to turn to IPS, which, thanks to the Flowactives® technology, was able to solve the problem at its root by protecting the ingredient during processing through microencapsulation. The technology involves encapsulating the oil within a protective membrane, reducing exposure to oxygen and thus slowing the oxidation process.
Flowactives® microcapsules are made with porcine or bovinegelatine, forming a protective barrier that shields the oil from external influences, preserving the stability and effectiveness of the omega-3s in chia and flaxseed oil.

The main advantages that led GTS Nutra to use microencapsulation:

  • Protection against oxidation: The protective membrane isolates the oil from the external environment, significantly slowing the oxidation process and preserving product quality.
  • Better stability and shelf life: Microencapsulated oils are more stable over time, with a longer shelf life, without compromising taste or nutritional effectiveness. The supplement will also ensure greater stability.
  • Gradual release: Microencapsulation allows for a gradual release of omega-3sin the gastrointestinal tract, improving absorption and the supplement's effectiveness.
  • Optimal taste: Protection from oxidation preserves the organoleptic characteristics of chia and flaxseed oils, preventing taste degradation.
  • Precise dosing and production efficiency: Microcapsules allow for accurate, clean dosing, reducing waste and improving productivity.

 

Conclusions

The introduction of microencapsulation of chia and flaxseed oil allowed GTS Nutra to effectively solve the oxidation problem and develop a stable, safe, high-quality supplement.

Thanks to Flowactives® microcapsules, GTS Nutra was able to:

  • Protect the oils from oxidation, preserving the quality and effectiveness of omega-3s
  • Increase product stability and shelf life, improving its longevity
  • Optimize the production process, reducing waste and improving efficiency
  • Ensure precise and consistent dosing
  • Offer an innovative nutraceutical supplement with gradual release and improved absorption

GTS Nutra was able to respond to market demands by developing a product that not only meets nutritional standards but also stands out for its quality and reliability.