Gentle on the stomach, Lipofer™ micronized microencapsulated iron reverses iron deficiency within 14 days.
New research confirms the exceptional performance of Lubrizol’s microencapsulated iron ingredient Lipofer™ in comparison to traditional iron sources. The in vivo study, which evaluated iron bioavailability and gastrointestinal tolerability in iron-deficient rats, found that Lubrizol’s proprietary formulation significantly outperformed conventional options, such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous bisglycinate, and other encapsulated iron salts.
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders worldwide, affecting an estimated quarter of the total population (2 billion people), but around 40% of women worldwide, according to a February, 2025 report by the World Health Organization (WHO).1[1] Iron deficiency is known to lead to fewer red blood cells, which reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. IDA is largely caused by increased iron loss, poor absorption, or insufficient dietary intake making supplementation a necessary part of the daily health routine.
Symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia can include: tiredness/lack of energy, shortness of breath, labored heartbeat, pale skin, and headaches. However, iron supplementation often triggers gastrointestinal discomfort and a strong metallic aftertaste. Absorption also can be limited, leading to higher doses needed which can lower adherence.
An Iron Pill You Can Swallow
Lubrizol’s orosoluble iron is a highly concentrated, micronized, and microencapsulated iron source designed specifically to reduce the associated side effects of iron supplementation while delivering a fully absorbable mineral that is significantly easier and pleasant to digest. Packaging the active ingredient in this protective matrix ensures its stability and controlled release in the G.I. tract for maximum absorption. Moreover, this technique enhances the sensory aspect and improves its overall tolerability due to the ability to reduce interactions of non-absorbed iron with gastrointestinal mucosa and possibly gut microbiota.
Lipofer microcapsules also contains lecithin, which helps the body absorb nutrients more effectively by integrating with the fats in cell membranes. In addition, the tiny iron particles in Lipofer have a larger surface area, which also improves absorption and allows the iron to reach the intestine without causing side effects.
The Lipofer study, published July, 2025 in the peer-reviewed journal Nature, in, was an animal study designed and led by Roger Marineé-Casadó, PhD, revealed the ingredient’s high level of effectiveness in reversing iron deficiency anaemia within 14 days, while also being gentle on the stomach, as measured by markers of gastrointestinal side effects.
“The microencapsulation matrix we’ve developed ensures that iron is delivered in a controlled manner,” explains 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. This study reinforces our commitment to developing science-driven, consumer-preferred solutions that address real nutritional challenges. Iron deficiency continues to affect billions globally, and our microencapsulated iron ingredient offers a breakthrough in both efficacy and comfort.”
Better absorption, fewer side effects
Following three months of supplementation, Lipofer demonstrated superior outcomes in boosting haemoglobin levels as well as in improving the body’s iron stores, as compared to other iron sources. The group supplementing with Lipofer microcapsules exhibited enhanced systemic absorption, as indicated by favorable changes in transferrin, (the protein that carries iron in the blood), as well as in total iron-binding capacity (TIBC).
The Lipofer supplemented subjects also showed no signs of gastrointestinal irritation or increased colon permeability across multiple assessments, even after prolonged administration. This was concluded through macroscopic examination of gut tissue, expression of the gut barrier’s mucus proteins, and inflammation-related signals.
In contrast, the ferrous sulfate supplement group exhibited induced inflammation, as evidenced by a marked increase in IL-6, a key pro-inflammatory biomarker. The combination of these results points to better gastrointestinal tolerance and enhanced digestive function compared with the other tested iron sources.
“These findings are a testament to the importance of formulation science in addressing micronutrient deficiencies,” adds 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.” In a previous blind taste test involving 100 participants, consumers confirmed that Lipofer had strong flavor appeal, with minimal metallic aftertaste.
Lubrizol’s microencapsulated iron delivered in pill form and as a powdered stick is water-dispersible making it suitable for a comprehensive range of applications, including dietary supplement formats as well as functional foods and beverages. It enjoyed previous success as a flavorful, pectin-based gummy also recognized as elevating the iron-supplementation experience.
Lubrizol will showcase this innovation at the upcoming SupplySide Global show in Las Vegas, on October 29-30, booth #4523 and at the CPHI tradeshow in Frankfurt on October 28-30, booth #8M71.
[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anaemia
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