Lonza today announces that its new Vcaps® Plus White Opal™ capsule, which is designed to address the growing demand for opaque capsules that do not include titanium dioxide, is coming soon to the market. By using an alternative opacifier, this new clean label capsule offers a natural semi-opaque look that masks unattractive food supplement ingredients. The new Vcaps® Plus White Opal™ capsule will be presented next week at Vitafoods Europe 2019 in Geneva (CH), where Lonza is the Official Capsule Sponsor.
Demand for a Titanium Dioxide Alternative
Food-grade titanium dioxide, also known as E 171, is a common white pigment that has a long history of use in food supplement applications for its brightness and opacifying properties. However, recent scientific studies indicated potential risks associated with the presence of nanoparticles. Although the data is not conclusive and further research is needed, these findings question the justified use of nanoparticle titanium dioxide as a food additive. With strong ongoing public debate, the marketing of titanium dioxide-containing foodstuffs will be suspended in France beginning January 1, 2020.
As consumer awareness increases, supplement producers are seeking more natural alternatives that are free from titanium dioxide. Lonza's new Vcaps® Plus White Opal™ capsule, the latest addition to its Capsugel® range of clean label plant-based capsules, is an ideal solution for supplement manufacturers.
Joachim Meier, Director, Head of Sales EMEA, Lonza Consumer Health & Nutrition, commented: “With four out of five supplement users citing ‘unquestionable safety' as a key decision-making factor when purchasing supplements, Lonza has developed the Vcaps® Plus White Opal™ capsule as a high-quality, cutting-edge solution that meets evolving consumer preferences.
As a pioneer in vegetarian capsules with expertise in R&D, scale-up and the regulatory landscape, Lonza can help support supplement manufacturers in the development of innovative products with clean label benefits.”
Time for Color
Lonza will also be showcasing its expanding portfolio of clean label food colored capsules at Vitafoods, including the Vcaps® Plus Blue Spirulina and Purple Carrot capsules and the soon-to-be launched Red Radish and Spicy Yellow. These next-generation capsules enable supplement brands to create vibrant products with colorful appeal, while also maintaining a natural appearance and delivering improved supply chain transparency.
Lonza is the Official Capsule Sponsor of Vitafoods Europe 2019. Lonza will be at booth G10, from 7-9 May, where attendees can talk to the experts or more information is available on www.capsugel.com