Lubrizol has introduced a prototype formulation to showcase its Magshape microencapsulated magnesium ingredient, in a fast-melt powdered stick for convenient use on the go.
 
The delivery system provides a more palatable format by which consumers can get their daily magnesium boost, Lubrizol said.
 
The prototype samples are orosoluble sticks, which deliver 250 mg of elemental magnesium, the upper limit recommended by the European Food Safety Authority, in a 1.5 gram sachet of powder. Magshape can also enable formulators to include magnesium in tablets and chewables.
 
“Orosoluble powders that can deliver uniform palatable doses of magnesium require significant expertise to develop successfully” said Alan Connolly, R&D manager. “It involves striking the right balance between particle size, solubility, taste, and flowability. Too large a particle size will result in poor dispersion in the mouth leading to a gritty, unpleasant texture. However, even the smallest particle will not behave as expected if it displays poor orosolubility.”
 
Magnesium has been embraced lately by athletes seeking out stress relief and muscle relaxation, Lubrizol reported, while it is also EFSA-approved for claims related to energy metabolism, muscle function, protein synthesis, and electrolyte balance.
 
“Magnesium supplementation is widely embraced to bridge some nutritional gaps,” said Isabel Gómez, global marketing manager for Lubrizol’s nutraceutical business. “However, obtaining the daily recommended dose can be burdensome, whether due to large pill sizes, their tendency to leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth, or gut discomfort, which consequently indicates poor absorption. Magshape magnesium ingredient was uniquely designed to ease the routine of supplementing by concentrating a potent dose of magnesium into the smallest serving while also being microencapsulated to ensure its absorption and minimize side effects.”
 
Magshape provides micronized magnesium oxide particles with a wider surface area, which can deliver a stable source of magnesium which is more slowly absorbed by the intestinal tract, and reduces common unpleasant side effects associated with magnesium supplementation, Lubrizol reported. The ingredient’s fluid consistency and water-dispersible coating makes it suitable for a wide variety of food matrices.
 
“Magshape ingredient is crafted from magnesium oxide which is the most concentrated form of magnesium,” said Gómez. “Its microencapsulation is designed to support gradual assimilation throughout the entire digestive system so that more gets into the blood stream to help replenish and maintain healthy magnesium levels in human cells and bones. A bioavailability study is in the pipeline to confirm its bioactivity in the body.”