Not what but how: Innovation opportunities for eye supplements lie in delivery systems

According to the firm’s Marketing Manager, Teo Xuan Hao, well-known ingredients for supporting eye health, such as lutein, zeaxanthin and astaxanthin, will continue to be foundational ingredients in this category for the foreseeable future. However, the opportunity for innovation “remains wide open”. “These carotenoids are backed by strong clinical research for their role in macular support, blue light filtration, and antioxidant protection. The next evolution isn’t just about what ingredients are used but how they are delivered and combined with synergistic bioactives for enhanced benefits. “We believe the future of innovation in this space lies not only in the ingredients, but also in how we deliver them for maximum benefit. One of the biggest challenges with delicate nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin is maintaining their potency from production to consumption. That’s where our proprietary NutriShield technology comes in,” Teo told NutraIngredients . He explained that NutriShield is an advanced microencapsulation delivery system engineered to protect sensitive nutrients and elevate their bioavailability. It safeguards carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals from degradation caused by heat, moisture, and oxidation. “Using microencapsulation and protective coating, NutriShield preserves nutrient stability, ensuring that key actives in our lutein supplement and other formulas remain intact until they reach the area [in the body] where they can be optimally utilized. This is especially valuable for eye supplement formulas, where ingredient integrity is critical for reliable support.” At the same time, the company sees strong potential in botanicals that address major health concerns, such as systemic inflammation, blood circulation, and digital fatigue. For example, bilberry extract and blackcurrant anthocyanins have growing traction for their benefits in microcirculation, which can support improved vision and overall eye health. Saffron extract, particularly safranal, is gaining clinical attention for its promise in improving visual acuity and supporting retinal health, while adaptogens like schisandra and rhodiola may indirectly bolster eye wellness by reducing the effects of screen-related stress and fatigue. “These herbs help buffer the body’s response to physical and mental strain, which is key for high-performance individuals. “We’re actively tracking these developments and constantly seeking clinically backed, multifunctional blends that address not just eye health in isolation but a holistic, lifestyle-driven approach to wellness, especially for individuals in demanding, high-exposure environments.” One of Nano Singapore’s top-selling eye supplements is the Eagle Vision Formula, which contains a mix of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, E, B-complex, and trace minerals like zinc, selenium and copper. The formula also comprises lutein and zeaxanthin to strengthen defense against blue light and the eye’s natural ability to handle prolonged digital exposure. Additionally, the inclusion of bilberry and grape seed extracts, known for their antioxidant properties, may help protect against free radical damage in the retina and macula, which are important areas for healthy vision. “This formula is designed to support contrast sensitivity and visual clarity, especially for users who regularly drive at night or work in low-light conditions. “The ingredients work together to provide daily support for individuals concerned about digital eye fatigue, age-related vision changes, or general visual wellness,” Teo said. As a “digitally native” wellness brand, Nano Singapore recognizes that compliance is driven by the user experience, particularly for younger audiences. As such, format innovation is on its radar, especially in the children’s wellness category. For instance, it is exploring gummies for kids and other chewable or snack-like delivery systems that make eye health fun, engaging, and easy for families. “But we don’t chase trends for novelty’s sake. Every new delivery format we explore — whether it’s jellies, dissolvables, or gummies — must first pass our strict safety, efficacy, and compliance benchmarks. That includes GMP-certified manufacturing, FDA equivalence, and unwavering ingredient integrity. “While we’re excited by innovative formats, we prioritize what matters most: bioavailability, consumer safety, and scientific reliability. Our goal is to ensure that any new format is not just fun or convenient, but also clinically sound and optimally absorbed.” With Singapore often referred to as the “Myopia Capital of the World”, the company is actively developing age-appropriate eye supplements for children and teens, including gummies with blue-light protection compounds and foundational carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin that are essential for maintaining visual health. “We believe that prevention starts young, and we aim to create parent-friendly formats that are tasty, safe, and backed by scientific rigor. In a world where screen time is unavoidable, be it for school, play or socializing, we want to empower parents with smarter, more proactive tools to safeguard their children’s eye health.”

Not what but how: Innovation opportunities for eye supplements lie in delivery systems

Nano Singapore says that innovation opportunities for eye supplements are not only about the ingredients, but also how they are delivered and combined with synergistic bioactives for maximum benefit.

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