To support the stability of the formulation and the viability of micro-organisms for a healthy gut, BENEO is presenting its galenIQ™ 721 innovation at the upcoming CPhI Festival of Pharma 2020.

During the virtual CPhI Festival of Pharma (5–16 October), BENEO will showcase galenIQ™ 721 – the agglomerated form of the firm’s pharmaceutical-grade Isomalt.  Supporting the viability of micro-organisms, the sweet-tasting excipient is suitable for probiotic powders, capsules and tablets. At the company’s digital booth, visitors will be able to learn more about galenIQ™ and its various application possibilities.

Efficient carrier excipient

Health-conscious consumers are increasingly using probiotic supplements to support their gut flora. As a result, a broad range of capsules, tablets and powder blends containing probiotic cultures is now available. However, the micro-organisms within these dosage forms are very fragile. If exposed to excess moisture, heat or pressure, they lose their health-giving effects. Therefore, an efficient carrier excipient is essential. 

According to scientific evidence, galenIQ™ 721 can be used to compact probiotic micro-organisms into a tablet form. Requiring only low compression forces, this alleviates mechanical stress on the cultures. In addition, stability studies in powder mixtures with Lactobacillus rhamnosus have confirmed that galenIQ™ 721 is an ideal carrier. Furthermore, BENEO’s excipient has a sugar-like taste, a smooth mouthfeel and can enhance the palatability of the final supplement. So, whether for probiotic tablets, stickpack powders or capsule fillings, galenIQ™ 721 is a highly functional filler-binder and carrier for probiotics.

Dr Maj-Britt Cepok, Head of Business Development Pharma, BENEO, explains: “To be effective, probiotic dosage forms must deliver an adequate number of viable microorganisms to the gut during their claimed shelf-life. As the bacteria are sensitive to temperature, oxygen and moisture, this can sometimes be challenging. Some of these issues can be mitigated with adequate packaging and control during transport and storage; but, exposure to moisture also depends on the selected carrier. galenIQ™ 721 is very low hygroscopic and does not release any water through desorption. Therefore, it’s a perfect excipient in a well-designed carrier system for probiotic supplement formulations.”

For more information, visit: www.galenIQ.com