Frutarom, AB-Biotics Partner on Encapsulated Iron

Switzerland-based ingredients firm Frutarom Health and Spain-based biotech firm AB-Biotics have signed an exclusive global agreement allowing Frutarom to sell and market AB-Biotics’ AB-Fortis encapsulated iron ingredient for functional food.

The companies describe AB-Fortis as an encapsulated iron ingredient that provides the recommended daily amount of iron in a single dose, while avoiding the metallic taste and classic side effects common of standard iron supplements. Such side effects can include dental darkening, gastrointestinal upset, or nausea, the firms say.

The encapsulated iron is suited for products rich in fat, such as milk or yogurt, without causing oxidation. In addition, AB-Fortis is said to resist high temperatures and can be included in formulations spanning any pH level.

The companies say this ingredient helps to address the iron deficiency prevalent worldwide. Often, they say, iron supplements must often be given at high doses due to poor absorption. AB-Fortis may help with this by enabling a high dose without gastrointestinal side effects.