Valensa introduces water-dispersible astaxanthin ingredient

Photo © iStockphoto.com/NNehring

Valensa International (Orlando, FL) has announced commercial availability of a powdered, water-dispersible version of its Zanthin natural astaxanthin. The ingredient was created in partnership with Virun Nutra-Biosciences (Pomona, CA), whose patented Esolv technology encapsulates the astaxanthin in micelles that are then spray-dried to create a water-soluble powder that is neutral flavored, highly dispersible, and bioavailable.

In a press release, Umasudan C.P., Valensa’s CEO, said, “This is a breakthrough for the industry. We’re bringing a water-dispersible and functional, enriched astaxanthin in a powder format that does not have the typical flavor profile, while achieving important commercial shelf life targets of up to 24 months. This is a game-changing innovation in providing convenient dosage forms that expand opportunities for this powerful antioxidant, that research continues to confirm plays an important role in healthy aging, especially for joint and eye health.”

Of the ingredient’s enhance bioavailability, he said: “Through the microencapsulation process, we’re able to make a water insoluble, non-polar carotenoid be absorbed easily so astaxanthin’s power can have affect throughout the body.”

Said Philip Bromley, Virun’s CEO, “We take Valensa’s Zanthin natural astaxanthin and deodorize it through a natural bicarbonate process, and then encapsulate the oil into micelles that are spray-dried. By creating the micelle structure, we put the oil into a form that is water soluble, highly bioavailable, and can even dissolve clear into beverages, all the while maintaining no fishy taste. So far, we have developed about successful, finished product prototypes with powdered Zanthin such as stick packs, pouches, bars, multi-serving smoothies, shots, beverages and more.”