Consumer Study Shows Preference for Lubrizol’s Iron Ingredient Lipofer

10.19.23

The microencapsulated iron ingredient reduces reactivity in the mouth and digestive tract, improving digestibility and taste, according to the company.

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Lubrizol Life Science announced the results of a consumer study which revealed preference for the melt-in-your-mouth iron supplement Lipofer. The results will be presented at SupplySide West.
 
“Many consumers turn to iron supplements to improve blood deficiencies, increase iron count and energy, while others are required to take iron supplements under medical advice,” said David Padró Escayola, global business manager for LLS Nutraceutical business. “These consumers are eager for a supplement that is easy to swallow, does not cause stomach upset or constipation, and does not have an unpleasant aroma or flavor. Above all, they want it to effectively improve wellness. LIPOFER was specifically designed to tick all those boxes, overcoming many of the challenges manufacturers face in the effort to create consumer-friendly sources of iron. Ours delivers the daily recommended dose of iron in a single 1.5-gram stick that satisfies the demands for science-backed, clinically substantiated ingredients with sensory appeal.”

Lubrizol’s oro-soluble iron is a highly concentrated, micronized, and microencapsulated iron source designed to reduce iron’s reactivity in the mouth and digestive tract while delivering a fully-absorbable mineral that is significantly easier to digest.
 
In the recent study, 100 volunteers blind-tested a series of five oro-soluble powder sticks in a single session. Two of the powder sticks were Lipofer at different dosages. The other three powder sticks were composed of conventional iron salts in an oro-soluble format.
 
The consumers were asked to rate various sensory characteristics of each product, including appearance, homogeneity, and metallic aftertastes. They then ranked the products in order to preference.
 
The consumers reported that Lipofer exerted the mildest metallic aftertaste, and that lingered for a much shorter duration than standard iron formulations. Lipofer also demonstrated exceptional homogeneity, with a smooth texture which melted upon consumption.
 
In follow-up interviews, the consumers mostly said they would be likely to incorporate Lipofer into their daily regimen, according to the company.
 
“We also conducted an analysis on the iron category using a consumer insights AI-powered platform to gain an understanding of what drives good or negative sentiments regarding iron supplementation,” said Isabel Gómez, Global Marketing Manager for LLS Nutraceutical business.
Lipofer powder sticks are water-soluble and can easily be integrated into a wide variety of supplement formats, and to fortify foods like dairy products and fruit juices. It has already been successfully featured in a pectin-based gummy, elevating the iron supplementation experience.