Hofseth BioCare in Catalent pact to develop delayed-release fish oil capsules
The partnership will use Catalent’s OptiGel DR softgel technology that blends pectin with gelatine to produce a release profile in a one-step manufacturing process without the need for an additional coating.
In encapsulating OmeGo with this technology, the plan is to produce a product that protects the active ingredients that may be degraded by acid in the stomach.
The delayed release ensures the active ingredient travels directly in the intestines where they are absorbed, potentially enhancing bioavailability.
“Our research into the health benefits of our unique oil has come a long way in the last 18 months, and we look forward to collaborating with Catalent, and hope to develop the partnership further, to leverage its innovative oral technologies to ensure the most efficacious delivery system,” says HBC’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Bomi Framroze.
“OptiGel DR will enhance the OmeGo franchise, bringing advanced delivery technology as well as raising its profile amongst global leading healthcare companies.”
OmeGo and COVID-19
The Ålesund-based firm are currently in the midst of carrying out studies to assess the potential role of OmeGo in helping to reduce inflammation especially that caused by COVID-19 with results expected over the coming months.
Efforts to investigate the link between any effects of fish oil on inflammation are at an early stage with one pilot study suggesting patients with the most omega-3s in their system were 75% less likely to die from the condition.
A group of nutrition experts from China have advised that the intake of omega-3 could reduce fatality rates in severe COVID-19 patients, while protein could suppress catabolism and polyphenols could be used to fight inflammation.
HBC’s intention to delay the release of its salmon oil in the body will invariably use gelatine capsules, which have proved suitable for this function as gelatine is readily soluble in acidic media and thus unstable in gastric fluid.
Along with Catalent, other firms in this sphere includes Capsugel and its DRcaps, a vegetarian alternative that also looks to reduce manufacturing costs and complexity by bypassing the need to add chemicals, solvents or other coated protection.
“This partnership is an exciting opportunity to combine the features of a high-quality ingredient with our new OptiGel DR capsule technology to create a product that delivers optimal benefits and experience for consumers,” adds Dr Aris Gennadios, President, Softgel and Oral Technologies, Catalent.
“Our rich history and innovation in softgel technology has allowed us to create a dosage form that delivers ingredients and formulations with an enteric release profile in robust capsules, providing product performance to meet consumers’ expectations.”
CosmoPod Duo softgels
Catalent also have a foot in the nutricosmetic industry having recently launched its CosmoPod Duo softgel capsule technology for the delivery of topical skin treatments back in February this year.
The CosmoPod Duo capsule’s segregated compartments accommodate two formulations into a single twist-off capsule allowing for the simultaneous application of treatments that combine incompatible ingredients.
Made from natural carrageenan that is sourced from seaweed , the capsule is also useful for ingredients that have a shorter shelf life when combined or two complementary hero ingredients.
The twist-off functionality allows precision application and offers benefits across a range of consumer health products including topical formulas for skin, hair, and body care.
