In simplistic terms, SoluBlend’s technology allows it to take fat-soluble actives and put them into clear beverages without impacting taste, texture or appearance.
Part of its success hinges on the stability factor. SoluBlend has completed stability testing on numerous fatty acids, demonstrating the technology protects/slows down the effect of oxidation on omega 3s, resveratrol, vitamin D3 and others, resulting in an improved shelf-life for the finished product.
According to Richard Staack, PhD, MBA, CEO, this technology moves ingredients like omega 3s beyond emulsions, microencapsulation and nanotechnology to offer customers, for the first time, the ability to put these ingredients into applications previously considered off limits. This not only includes clear beverages, but also gummi applications, soups, powders and many others.
The solubility of these ingredients is also key, because it allows the company to get higher doses into finished products. “At the end of the day, we have found a cost-effective way to put efficacious doses of these ingredients into beverages.”
In addition, SoluBlend is able to offer masking technology with its ingredient systems. “This allows us to mask any negatives that might be coming from the active,” according to Eric Kuhrts, president and CEO. “By incorporating our masking system we are further contributing to a finished product’s acceptability.”
The company is also conducting a range of studies to validate its technology. “We are currently conducting human pharmacokinetic studies to test the bioavailability of these ingredient systems. Omega 3s are the first to undergo these studies and then we will move on to others,” Dr. Staack explained.
SoluBlend’s technology is also clean and label-friendly. “SoluBlend is committed to using GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) approved nutraceutical actives and ingredients. The liquid concentrates are manufactured in conformity with Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and meets or exceeds all FDA requirements with respect to safety,” the company said on its website.
Barely two years old, the company has accomplished a lot in a short period of time. As a result of meeting some major milestones, Dr. Staack said, “We are being looked at by some of the biggest beverage makers in the market and the technology has been validated. Now we are ready to break through with several agreements.” He went on to say that there are already products on the market using this technology and many more are expected to launch in 2012.
Most recently, SoluBlend received the 2011 Frost & Sullivan Innovation Award. Besides feeling honored, Dr. Staack said, “This presented us with a great opportunity to get the information about our technology out there. We believe we are positioned at the right time and place with this technology, as people are increasingly looking toward beverages to deliver health. Essentially, we have created a brand new aisle in beverages—truly functional water.”
“If there is a reason to make an ingredient soluble, then you need SoluBlend Technologies. We intend to revolutionize the beverage market and any others where this technology is applicable,” Dr. Staack concluded.—R.W.
SoluBlend Technologies LLC
11487 Amhearst Court
Frankfort, IL 60423
Telephone: 815-534-5778
E-mail: rstaack@solublend.com
Website: www.solublend.com