Types of Raw Materials

OEM supplement industry is highly dependent on the sourcing of raw materials, which can be complex and multifaceted. Here are some key aspects of raw material sourcing in that MantrPharm can do:

Herbs and Botanicals

These are plant-derived materials used in herbal supplements and formulations. They can include leaves, roots, flowers, and seeds.

Examples:

Frankincense: Often used for immune support.
Ginseng: Commonly used for energy and cognitive enhancement.
Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to the active compound curcumin.

Sourcing Considerations:

Wild Harvesting vs. Cultivation: Some herbs are wild-harvested, while others are cultivated specifically for commercial use. The method of sourcing can affect potency and sustainability.
Geographic Origin: Many herbs are more potent when sourced from their native regions (e.g., Frankincense from Ethiopia, Arabic Peninsula.)

Vitamins and Minerals

Examples:

Vitamin C: Often sourced from ascorbic acid derived from cherry or other plant sources.
Zinc: Typically mined as zinc oxide or obtained from plant-based sources.

Sourcing Considerations:

Synthetic vs. Natural Sources: Some vitamins and minerals are synthetically produced, while others are derived from natural food sources. For example, vitamin E can be sourced from soy or sunflower oil.
Bioavailability: The form of the vitamin or mineral can impact its absorption and effectiveness in the body.

Amino Acids and Proteins

Examples:

Whey Protein: Derived from milk and commonly used in protein supplements and shakes.
Plant-Based Proteins: Such as pea protein, soy protein, and rice protein, which cater to vegan and vegetarian consumers.

Sourcing Considerations:

Source Integrity: The quality of the protein can vary based on its source, processing methods, and whether it is organic.
Allergen Concerns: Sourcing must consider potential allergens (e.g., soy, dairy) that could affect consumers.

Functional Ingredients

Examples:

Probiotics: Live bacteria that promote gut health, commonly sourced from fermented foods or specific strains cultivated in laboratories.
Enzymes: Such as bromelain (from pineapple) or papain (from papaya), used for digestion and inflammation.
Omega-3: Fatty acids are a group of important types of fat: ALA, DHA, and EPA which is very essential to our health but cannot be form in our body, however, it can only be consumed in normal diet or in supplements.

Sourcing Considerations:

For Omega-3: Purity, TOXT index and whether is wild caught.
For probiotics: different strains can have varying effects, so sourcing must be precise to ensure efficacy.
Stability and Shelf Life: Functional ingredients often require special handling and storage conditions to maintain their effectiveness.