Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE: DAR), a global leader in repurposing food waste for sustainable products and renewable energy, has announced the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 11795489B2 by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to its health brand Rousselot. The patent secures intellectual property rights for StabiCaps™, a specialized gelatin designed to enhance the formulation and stability of soft gel capsules, thereby improving the release of active ingredients, including medications.
StabiCaps addresses a common challenge known as crosslinking, which can impede the dissolution of soft gel capsules, leading to slower or incomplete release of nutrients or pharmaceutical ingredients. Crosslinking occurs when soft gel capsules are exposed to specific active compounds or unfavorable storage conditions, causing molecular bonds to form within the capsule shell, limiting or preventing proper dissolution.
Earlier in May 2022, Darling Ingredients received a patent from the European Patent Office (EPO) for StabiCaps, covering all major European countries.
Pierre-Albert Thomas, Rousselot Functional Ingredients Director, emphasized the significance of StabiCaps for soft gel capsule manufacturers, stating, "StabiCaps is an essential innovation for soft gel capsule manufacturers because gelatin is a primary ingredient." The newly granted patent enables U.S. manufacturers to leverage StabiCaps gelatin technology, producing high-quality soft gel capsules with extended shelf stability and improved efficacy for consumers.
Soft gel capsules are a preferred dosage format for their ease of swallowing and capabilities in masking odors and tastes. According to Persistence Market Research, the global soft gel capsules market is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.3% from 2023 to 2033.
StabiCaps is a key component of Rousselot's comprehensive portfolio of gelatin solutions catering to the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical markets. This portfolio also includes SiMoGel™, an innovative technology facilitating starch-free gummy production.
