Oil And Water Finally Get Along: 21st Solutions' Patent Transforms Industry Norms

21st Solutions has been granted a new U.S. patent for "Starch-Derived Clathrate-Forming Compositions," a groundbreaking technology that could reshape the cannabis, nutraceutical, food and pharmaceutical sectors. The patent details an innovative molecular dispersion technique designed to solve the age-old issue of mixing oil and water, offering solutions far beyond traditional emulsion technologies.

This landmark patent employs guest/host chemistry to produce "slinky-like" molecules with selectable hydrophobic cores. These tunnels effectively encapsulate oil molecules in water, achieving an unprecedented degree of solubility. The resultant molecular dispersion not only paves the way for new product development but also promises to enhance the bioavailability and taste of existing products.

Gary Nickel, founder of 21st Solutions, shared his perspective on the advancement: "We deeply respect the complexities surrounding cannabinoid extraction and formulation and the companies that have done amazing work making difficult traditional emulsions. As much as those things are amazing—in most cases, they don't taste good. They taste bitter and have a confusing mouthfeel, and their emulsifying systems take up much space. This Guest/Host technology changes that game."

According to the company, the newly patented technology could revolutionize the manufacturing processes for cannabis edibles, pharmaceutical topical creams and various nutraceutical products. It stands to benefit medical clinics and dispensaries by enhancing the efficacy and palatability of existing treatments.

The implications of this patent go beyond mere commercial applications. This new molecular dispersion technique capitalizes on "nature's traditional carbohydrate gifts," previously utilized in traditional foods across cultures. 21st Solutions has effectively "unwrapped" these tools to produce ingredients that can disperse even the most challenging cannabinoids and improve their bioavailability, simultaneously addressing issues related to taste and mouthfeel.

The far-reaching potential of this invention poses a substantial step forward for sectors struggling with the limitations of existing emulsion technologies. It beckons a new era, one where molecular dispersions offer a more efficient, more effective way to formulate products requiring the stable incorporation of oil into water-based solutions.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, the place where deals get done, is returning to Chicago this Sept 27-28 for its 17th edition. Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.

Photo: 21st Solutions