SinodosChemistry

Omega 3 supplements come in various forms (liquids, capsules, etc.) and in various formulations which mainly contain the active ingredients, the carriers, protective compounds, and in specific cases other minor compositions of functional ingredients.

Every omega 3 supplements contain the active ingredients which can be EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and sometimes ALA and DPA (docosapentaenoic acid). In fish oil formulations, the usual capsule size is 1g, with a composition of around 30% being EPA and DHA, whereas in concentrated supplements the composition can reach 80% of EPA and DHA. The common ratio between the two is 3:2 but depending on the needs and purpose of each formulation, this can be easily modified. Prescription omega-3 products for hypertriglyceridemia come in much higher concentrations, up to 850 mg per 1000mg, and there are products that are pure EPA as well (1000mg EPA in the 1000mg capsule). Some products also include some minor DPA content, which has not been adequately studied to date regarding its health benefits, but research is active in the field. ALA is mostly included in formulations from plant oils (flaxseed, hemp, etc.), but it is not a ‘direct’ health improver since it first has to convert to EPA and DHA in the body, with low conversion success (about 15% in best cases, below 10% in most cases). ‘3-6-9’ combo supplements is another formulation approach, combining at least one active omega X from the three classes. Commonly this includes EPA/DHA as omega 3, GLA or linoleic acid as omega 6, and oleic acid (omega 9) blended in one supplement. The success of such supplements is the broad spectrum of health benefits, but criticism exists as to whether omega 6s and 9s are vital, since 6s and 9s are easier to include in a diet, and 9s can be created in the body from unsaturated fat. We, in MVS Pharma and SinodosChemistry, manufacture the ideal compositions of fish oil, based on the optimum EPA/ DHA content.

 

 

There exists a variety of capsule materials for the encapsulation of omega 3 supplements in the market. The solutions include tested materials, such as the softgel from gelatin, hard capsules, and more ‘novel’ ones such as vegetarian capsules, and other capsules that are under development. Differences among the capsules exist, and we, in MVS Pharma, have dedicated much time in identifying the technical and scientific progress in the field, aiming at always providing the highest quality of capsule materials. Significant testing has identified some issues with specific types of capsules in terms of sealing efficiency, cracking and other mechanical properties related concerns. All of these findings have led MVS Pharma and SinodosChemistry to only adapt fault proof approaches in all of our supplements.

 

Carriers refer to the form that the omega 3s is present in the formulation. The options are triglyceride form (natural fish oil, algal oil, re-esterified oil), ethyl ester form (concentrates), and even phospholipid form (Krill oil). Many supplements state the nature of the carrier / form, trying to identify themselves in the market. Any form can be independently confirmed with existing spectrometry analytical approaches (for example GCMS). Phospholipid form usually comes in smaller capsules due to a higher absorption rate and bioavailability. Within the carriers, many manufactures include taste masking agents, or even flavors, to make the supplements more ‘attractive’ to specific consumers segments, such as kids. Another common delivery method that aims at increasing absorption rate and bioavailability is the emulsification of omega 3s. This manufacturing method requires efficient stabilization approaches and manufacturing processes to avoid phase separation and loss of the added bioavailability benefits. In MVS Pharma, we provide formulations in highly bioavailable forms and continuously work on bringing new ideas and products to the market.

 

 

Since omega 3s are susceptible to oxidation, a series of additives, mainly antioxidants, are used to provide an additional layer of protection. Different antioxidants have been found in the market, and the most common ones include:

n  Tocopherols (Vitamin E)

n  Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester)

n  Astaxanthin (naturally found in Krill oil)

n  Rosemary Extracts

n  Citric acid (and some of its esters)

n  Others, with less occurrence such as Propyl Gallate

More innovative approaches have been scientifically discussed and are under investigation, such as for example the inclusion of enzymes or bile salts in the capsules to boost omega 3 absorption. MVS Pharma and SinodosChemistry are both monitoring scientific advances in the field and investing Research and Development sources to continuously improve the user experience for our products.