Food supplements are appearing in all kinds of fun-filled formats that are designed to make the experience of taking a daily vitamin more enticing.
One start-up that has innovated with a new format is Vapsula, which has launched food supplements in precise-dose, biodegradable capsules that can be used in Nespresso coffee machines.
The company currently offers three concoctions to replace the daily caffeine pick-me-up with a vitamin boost: Glow, which has a mixture of collagen and vitamin C flavoured with red berries; Boost, which includes guarana and vitamin B3 and tastes of lemons; and Hydration, which includes a mix of vitamins and magnesium and has a vanilla flavour.
Designed to “fit seamlessly” into familiar rituals
According to the founder and CEO Corrina Reiners, Vapsula is about “reimagining wellness and sustainability with a simple yet innovative solution.”
The capsules are 100% biodegradable, compatible with Nespresso machines, and infused with carefully selected vitamins and supplements.
“They provide an easy way to support your health without disrupting your daily routine,” Reiners explained.
The innovation was designed to “fit seamlessly” into familiar rituals, she continued. “For instance, if you already enjoy the experience of brewing a fresh cup using your Nespresso machine, Vapsula feels like a natural extension of that habit; only now, it’s about nourishing your body and mind.”
As Reiners pointed out, the nutrients are more quickly and easily absorbed by the body when combined with liquid.
The supplements are priced at €49.90 for a one-month treatment (a pack of 28 capsules) and they are available online via the brand’s website.
Potential new markets in 2025
The product was initially launched into the European market in February 2024, but the brand is now in talks with distributors to open in the UK, US Australia, China and Korea in 2025.
“Our primary markets include individuals who prioritise wellness and sustainability, as well as businesses in the health, beauty, and hospitality sectors,” explained Reiners.
She said that developing the range took around three years and the process involved intensive research, prototyping, and collaboration with food technologists, packaging experts, and wellness professionals.
Although Vapsula hasn’t directly collaborated with Nespresso, it conducted thorough testing on the machines to ensure the capsules perform seamlessly.
“Our target audience includes wellness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals who are looking for a seamless, environmentally responsible way to maintain health,” Reimers explained.
“We appeal to those who care about sustainability, quality, and convenience, from busy professionals and travellers to fitness lovers and those exploring eco-conscious lifestyles.”
100% plant-based and biodegradable capsules
The capsules are made with 100% plant-based and biodegradable material sourced from a mix of cereal plants and other natural components, including fibres, starches, and proteins, which makes it not only renewable but also free from harmful substances like aluminum, BPA, and petroleum.
“The material itself is fully compostable and designed to degrade within 26 weeks, much faster than traditional plastics or aluminum, which can take centuries to break down,” shared Reimers.
“Our capsules offer a sustainable solution to the growing problem of single-use plastics, particularly in industries like coffee capsules, which often contribute to significant environmental waste,” she continued.
In terms of efficacy, the brand hasn’t conducted any scientific trials on the product, said Reiners, but it has carefully sourced high-quality ingredients for the formulas, such as collagen and vitamin C for skin health and relied on scientifically supported evidence regarding the efficacy.
“While we have not yet conducted full clinical trials, the individual ingredients are well-documented in the scientific community for their respective benefits,” she said.
“Our capsules offer a sustainable solution to the growing problem of single-use plastics, particularly in industries like coffee capsules”
Founder and CEO Corrina Reiners
Reiners also said that future clinical studies are part of the company’s roadmap as it continues “to refine and expand” its product line and that the brand is currently developing new capsule formulas that are “designed to support specific health and wellness goals.”
On top of this, it’s also exploring collaborations in the beauty, fitness, and hospitality industries. “Whether it’s in a wellness retreat, hotel, spa, clinic or fitness center, we’re focused on bringing convenience and sustainability to every corner of the wellness space,” Reimers said.
“Small, daily rituals can create meaningful change,” she concluded. “We believe that wellness and sustainability go hand in hand, and we’re proud to offer a solution that can make both accessible and impactful.”