Balchem, a leading global provider of specialty ingredients for human nutrition and health, has announced the launch of Optifolin+, an innovative choline-enriched folate designed to transform the dietary supplement market in the U.S. Optifolin+ combines the benefits of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF) with the power of VitaCholine®, a top choline brand, to support cellular health at every stage of life—from pregnancy and child development to adulthood.
This new bioactive folate product offers unmatched stability and solubility, making it easier for supplement manufacturers to create effective and high-quality products. It’s poised to be a game-changer in the world of nutritional supplements.
A New Era for Women’s Health
The introduction of Optifolin+ comes at a time when the women’s health market is experiencing rapid growth. More consumers are seeking personalized, gender-specific solutions to support their health at all life stages. According to Frederic Boned, Senior Vice President & GM of Balchem Human Nutrition and Health, “Folate supplementation is crucial, particularly for women during preconception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, as it plays an essential role in supporting both maternal and fetal health. Adequate folate intake also helps regulate homocysteine levels, contributing to better brain health as we age.” Optifolin+ is the first choline-enriched folate salt on the market, offering seven times more methyl groups than traditional folate products. This unique combination supports prenatal health, heart function, and cognitive health, making it a must-have ingredient for supplement manufacturers.
What Makes Optifolin+ Special?
Optifolin+ stands out due to its patented L-5-methylfolate, which contains 98% active methylating nutrients. This unique formula delivers seven times more methyl groups than typical folate products, ensuring balanced and effective methylation within the body. Methylation is a critical biochemical process that regulates various bodily systems, including cardiovascular, neurological, and reproductive functions. By supporting DNA and RNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, protein metabolism, and neural tube development, Optifolin+ plays a vital role in promoting healthy fetal development and overall well-being.
Unlike synthetic folic acid, Optifolin+ is already biologically active, meaning it doesn’t need to undergo conversion in the body. This makes it more bioavailable and efficient, preventing the buildup of unmetabolized folic acid—a common issue with traditional folate supplements. Optifolin+ is the ideal choice to meet Vitamin B9 requirements without the metabolic roadblocks.
Enhancing Product Development for Manufacturers
For manufacturers, Optifolin+ offers several key advantages. Its enhanced stability and solubility make it easy to incorporate into various supplement formats, such as tablets, capsules, sachets, and stick packs. This allows brands to develop innovative, convenient, and effective products that appeal to a broad consumer base. As Dominik Mattern, VP of Science, Business Development, and Marketing at Balchem Human Nutrition and Health, explains, “The folate market is evolving from one-size-fits-all solutions to more personalized approaches. Optifolin+ offers manufacturers the opportunity to create tailored supplements that address specific health needs while maximizing health benefits.”
Looking Ahead
Optifolin+ has already received the New Dietary Ingredient Notification (NDIN) and is protected by patent rights. Initially launching in the U.S., the product is expected to be a key player in the evolving landscape of nutritional supplements. Balchem’s broader portfolio of vitamins and minerals is also set to benefit from the addition of Optifolin+, as the company explores synergies between this new ingredient and its flagship products.
Balchem’s commitment to advancing human nutrition continues with the launch of Optifolin+, which aligns with the company’s mission to improve health and well-being through cutting-edge, science-backed solutions.
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