Omya launches new calcium carbonate ingredient touting high bioavailability

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Omya (Ofringen, Switzerland) has launched Omyaforte 100-OG, a bioavailable source of calcium suitable for fortified foods and powdered supplement formulations targeting athletes, and healthy aging, for example. Omyaforte 100-OG is made from high purity natural calcium carbonate that goes through a patented recrystallization process. According to the firm, this creates higher solubility of calcium salts in acidic environments, and therefore enhanced bioaccessibility, as well as improved calcium update into the bloodstream.

The ingredient contains 39% elemental calcium, and given its high bioavailability, a smaller dose is required to reach recommended daily intakes. For example, 770 mg of Omyaforte 100-OG is required to reach 30% of the recommended 1,000 mg of calcium per day, which can be easily incorporated into powdered products, such as chocolate drinks, without effecting sensory properties and texture.

“The amount of calcium in the diet is not the only thing that is important for strong bones. Also crucial is the bioavailability of this calcium – in other words, the amount that is absorbed by the intestine,” said Stefan Lander, vice president, consumer goods, group sales and marketing at Omya, in a press release. “For many people, particularly athletes, the elderly and those who avoid dairy products, it can be difficult to achieve an adequate calcium intake. In addition, during adolescence, the body requires more calcium to build strong bones. For these groups, calcium supplements and fortified foods can be helpful.”

In collaboration with Gelita (Eberbach, Germany), Omya has developed a cocoa drink prototype containing Omyaforte 100-OG and Gelita’s Fortibone collage peptides to support bone stability and flexibility.