Beyond Bioavailability: Lycored’s VAS Tech Aims to Simplify Supplement Formulation & Boost Efficacy

Branchburg, NJ – November 1st, 2025 – In a market saturated with dietary supplements, consistent formulation and reliable ingredient delivery remain significant hurdles for manufacturers. Lycored, a global leader in naturally derived carotenoids, is aiming to address these challenges with the launch of its new Versatile Application Solution (VAS) technology, unveiled this week at SupplySide Global 2025. But VAS isn’t simply a refinement of existing microencapsulation techniques; it represents a strategic bet on versatility and simplification, with potential ripple effects across the nutraceutical landscape.

VAS technology utilizes microencapsulated starch beadlets to improve the performance and stability of active ingredients across a range of product formats – from tablets and gummies to powders and capsules. The company is initially focusing on incorporating lycopene, beta-carotene, lutein, and various vitamins into the VAS matrix, but the platform is designed to accommodate a wider range of nutraceuticals.

“The industry is constantly striving for better bioavailability, but often overlooks the logistical challenges of consistent formulation across different product types,” explains a source familiar with Lycored’s development process. “VAS is designed to solve both problems simultaneously.”

The Challenge of Consistent Delivery

Traditional ingredient delivery systems often require different formulations for different applications. A highly bioavailable form of lycopene effective in a capsule might be unstable or difficult to incorporate into a gummy. This necessitates separate sourcing, manufacturing processes, and quality control procedures, increasing costs and complexity. VAS, however, offers a “one-size-fits-all” solution, promising consistent performance regardless of the final product format.

“The core idea is to decouple the ingredient's performance from the manufacturing process,” says another industry insider. “By encapsulating the active ingredient within a stable starch beadlet, Lycored is essentially creating a ‘protected’ form that can withstand the rigors of different production environments.”

Beyond Tablets: Expanding Application Potential

The implications of this simplified formulation process are significant. Manufacturers can reduce SKUs, streamline production lines, and improve inventory management. More importantly, VAS opens up new possibilities for product innovation.

“Previously, it might have been too difficult or expensive to create a gummy with a high dose of lycopene,” notes a food scientist specializing in nutraceutical formulation. “VAS makes it much more feasible, allowing brands to expand their product offerings and cater to evolving consumer demands.”

Lycored is showcasing its VAS technology at SupplySide Global, with demonstrations of its performance across various product matrices. Elizabeth Tarshish, PhD, Lycored’s Head of Product and Science, presented on lycopene bioavailability, highlighting the research supporting the benefits of this powerful antioxidant for cardiovascular health, skin protection, and prostate function. This research underpins the company's commitment to maximizing the efficacy of its ingredients.

Competitive Landscape & Market Dynamics

Lycored isn't the only player in ingredient delivery technology. Companies like DSM, BASF, and Kerry all offer microencapsulation solutions. However, Lycored’s focus on versatility and simplification appears to be a key differentiator.

The global carotenoids market, valued at $1.5 billion in 2020, is projected to reach $2.2 billion by 2028, driven by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of these compounds. Similarly, the dietary supplements market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by the aging population and the rising demand for preventative healthcare.

“The key to success in this market is innovation,” notes a market analyst specializing in the nutraceuticals industry. “Companies that can offer solutions that address both the technical challenges and the evolving consumer needs will be best positioned to thrive.”

Lycored’s parent company, ADM, is a significant player in the broader nutrition and health landscape, providing Lycored with access to a vast network of resources and expertise. This strategic alignment positions Lycored to scale its VAS technology and expand its reach into new markets.

The Future of Formulation?

VAS isn’t just about improving existing formulations; it’s about enabling new possibilities. The technology could potentially be applied to a wider range of nutraceuticals, including vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts.

“We're seeing a growing trend towards personalized nutrition,” says a source within Lycored’s R&D department. “VAS could play a key role in enabling the development of customized supplement formulations tailored to individual needs.”

The success of VAS will ultimately depend on its ability to deliver on its promises of simplification, stability, and enhanced bioavailability. However, if Lycored can successfully execute its vision, this technology could represent a significant step forward in the evolution of dietary supplement formulation, potentially reshaping the industry for years to come. The company’s commitment, coupled with the growing demand for effective and convenient nutraceuticals, positions VAS as a technology to watch in the coming years.