Stevia-based solubilization platform for natural ingredients in low ph systems

Overview

This technology leverages steviol glycosides (stevia) as natural solubilizers to dramatically increase the water solubility of poorly soluble compounds while simultaneously using those compounds to stabilize stevia in acidic environments. The mutual solubilization effect allows both stevia and the co-processed ingredient to achieve higher solubility than either could alone. The platform has already demonstrated the ability to solubilize more than 100 small molecules, including notoriously water-insoluble compounds such as curcumin and natural paclitaxel. By precisely tailoring the molecular interaction between stevia and a target ingredient, the technology produces stable, high-concentration aqueous solutions suitable for low pH applications.

Technical specifications

Core mechanism:

• Steviol glycosides act as solubilizers for poorly water-soluble natural ingredients
• The solubilized ingredient in turn stabilizes stevia, preventing aggregation and crystallization
• Mutual solubilization produces solutions with enhanced clarity and extended shelf stability

Performance capabilities:

• Stevia solubility achieved up to 50% w/v in water
• Stable across pH range of 2 to 7.4
• Functional across cold to warm temperatures
• Compatible with ingredient concentrations of 1 to 15% (or as specified)
• Validated with over 100 small molecules including curcumin and natural paclitaxel

Quality assessment methods:

• Particle size analysis
• Clarity measurement
• HPLC concentration verification
• Visual sediment inspection
• Long-term stability testing targeting 12-month shelf-life

Technology readiness level

The technology has been validated in laboratory settings with demonstrated solubility and stability results across a range of concentrations and pH conditions. Long-term stability of stevia in low pH environments has been confirmed at multiple concentration levels. The research team can begin work immediately from their start-up lab upon agreement, with capabilities to produce assessment samples and create new candidate formulations based on sponsor requirements. The platform is positioned for collaborative development with sponsors to refine and rank promising candidates for commercial application.