Lubrizol’s microencapsulated iron shows superior absorption and gastrointestinal tolerance in animal study
New formulation reverses iron deficiency within 14 days
Lubrizol has announced positive results from an in vivo study evaluating its microencapsulated iron ingredient, Lipofer™, which demonstrated improved bioavailability and gastrointestinal tolerability compared to conventional iron sources in iron-deficient rats.
Lubrizol has announced positive results from an in vivo study evaluating its microencapsulated iron ingredient, Lipofer™, which demonstrated improved bioavailability and gastrointestinal tolerability compared to conventional iron sources in iron-deficient rats.
The research, published in July 2025 in Nature and led by Dr Roger Marineé-Casadó, compared Lipofer against traditional iron supplements including ferrous sulphate, ferrous bisglycinate, and other encapsulated iron salts. The study assessed both iron absorption efficacy and gastrointestinal side effects over a three-month supplementation period.
Enhanced absorption with reduced side effects
According to the findings, subjects supple-mented with Lipofer exhibited superior outcomes in haemoglobin levels and iron stores. The microencapsulated formulation showed enhanced systemic absorption, indicated by favourable changes in transferrin and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC).
“The microencapsulation matrix we’ve developed ensures that iron is delivered in a controlled manner,” explained Isabel Gómez, global marketing manager for Lubrizol Nutraceuticals. “This not only improves tolerability but also enhances the bioavailability of the mineral, as confirmed by the study’s haematological and biochemical markers.”
Gastrointestinal tolerance markers
A key differentiator was the product’s gastrointestinal tolerance profile. Subjects receiving Lipofer showed no signs of gastro-intestinal irritation or increased colon permeability across multiple assessments, including macroscopic examination of gut tissue, mucus protein expression, and inflammation-related signals.
In contrast, the ferrous sulphate group exhibited induced inflammation, evidenced by a marked increase in IL-6, a key pro-inflammatory biomarker. The study suggests the micro-encapsulation technology reduces interactions between non-absorbed iron and gastro-intestinal mucosa and possibly gut microbiota.
Formulation science
The Lipofer formulation utilises micronised, microencapsulated iron particles packaged in a protective matrix containing lecithin. This design enables controlled release in the gastrointestinal tract whilst the lecithin component assists nutrient absorption by integrating with cell membrane fats. The increased surface area of the micronised particles is reported to improve absorption whilst allowing intestinal delivery without causing side effects.
“These findings are a testament to the importance of formulation science in addressing micronutrient deficiencies,” added Alan Connolly, global R&D manager. “By improving both the absorption and the user experience with great-tasting iron supplements we’re bridging the gap between clinical efficacy and consumer adherence.”
The water-dispersible formulation is available in pill form and as a powdered stick, making it suitable for dietary supple-ments, functional foods, and beverages. A previous blind taste test with 100 partici-pants confirmed minimal metallic aftertaste.
The ingredient addresses iron deficiency anaemia, which affects an estimated 2 billion people globally, including approximately 40% of women worldwide, according to a February 2025 WHO report.
For more information, visit: www.lubrizol.com/Health/Nutraceuticals
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