California-based ingredient supplier AIDP recently announced the findings of a bioavailability study on VegD3, a vegan, organic form of vitamin D3. The study was completed in Ireland through research and development company AnaBio Technologies Ltd, together with University College Dublin in 2020.
 
Ten healthy volunteers in the trial supplemented with a daily dose of 600 IU VegD3, with their plasma vitamin D levels measured at baseline and then again at the completion of the trial 7 days later. Participants saw an average increase of 33 nmol/L (13.45ng/mL), which was approximately 77.3% above baseline. These results were statistically significant, and participants who were vitamin D deficient at baseline increased to sufficient vitamin D plasma levels by the end of the 7-day test period.
 
The study confirmed that VegD3 is a bioavailable source of vitamin D3, supporting the existing analytical data from preclinical studies. VegD3 is the only pure plant-based vitamin D3 that can be used as a 1:1 replacement for animal-sourced vitamin D3, AIDP said. It is sourced from sustainable algae, and offers superior purity and quality to the lanolin D3, the company said. Additionally, it is approved by the Vegan Society, and there are no supply limitations.
 
Additionally, AIDP reports that VegD3 has excellent organoleptic properties, and is highly stable, making it ideal for all types of beverages. Vitamin D has been included in milk and juices, respectively, for decades. The change has been in areas such as technologies for improved absorption, and plant-based alternatives to synthetic or animal-derived ingredients.
 
“The awareness of Vitamin D grew in 2020 for its role in supporting immune health,” AIDP said in the announcement. “Studies on vitamin D and immunity grew over 25% in 2020 vs. 2019. Over 350 publications have evaluated the role of vitamin D in reducing severe outcomes from compromised immune systems. Consumers are seeking vitamin D and now those practicing a vegetarian or vegan diet have a highly bioavailable option.”