Compositions containing coated minerals or mineral - amino acid complexes

Abstract

A composition containing a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex, wherein at least one of the complexes in the composition has a sustained - release coating, and in some cases, other complexes in the composition do not have a sustained - release coating. This specification provides such a composition. This specification also provides methods for preparing and using the complex and the composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 339,044, filed on May 6, 2022. The disclosure of this prior application is considered to be part of the disclosure of this application (incorporated into the disclosure of this application by reference).

[0002] Technical Field This specification relates to compositions containing minerals, or complexes containing mineral - amino acid compounds, optionally bound to a polysaccharide, as well as compositions and methods of making and using such complexes. In the compositions provided herein, one or more of the minerals, mineral - amino acid compounds, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes can have a coating that delays the release of the mineral or chelated (or partially chelated) mineral until it reaches the small intestine, thereby reducing the likelihood of stomach upset.

Background Art

[0003] Background Minerals are required as part of the human diet for good health. For example, calcium is a major component of bones and teeth, iron is an essential element of hemoglobin, copper, magnesium, and zinc are cofactors for various enzymes, and manganese and selenium function as antioxidants and contribute to endothelial integrity. Mineral deficiencies can lead to ill - health and specific disorders. The human body requires certain minerals (such as calcium, iron, copper, and zinc) in trace, soluble forms to provide bioavailable metal ions into the bloodstream. However, there is concern that typical modern diets, in which processed and instant foods are consumed in large quantities, may not contain such minerals at sufficient levels.

[0004] Naturally occurring minerals found in foods are often chelated or bound within an organic matrix. In contrast, minerals found in dietary supplements are typically in the form of inorganic salts such as mineral sulfates. These inorganic mineral species are more reactive and can catalyze the generation of free radicals associated with various degenerative diseases or conditions within the digestive tract. Additionally, certain mineral species can cause stomach upsets and may have relatively low bioavailability.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] Summary This specification provides complexes containing minerals, mineral - amino acid compounds, and / or complexes containing mineral - amino acid compounds bound to polysaccharides, compositions containing such complexes, and methods for making and using such complexes and compositions. At least a portion of the minerals, mineral - amino acid compounds, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes in the compositions provided herein are coated to slow or delay the release of the mineral component (e.g., until the complex enters the small intestine) for the purpose of reducing the likelihood that the complex causes stomach upsets.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present specification features a composition. The composition can contain, consist essentially of, or consist of a first complex comprising a first compound conjugated to a first polysaccharide, where the first compound includes a first mineral and a first amino acid, and the first complex is coated with a sustained-release coating. The first mineral can be selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron. The first amino acid can be selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine. The first amino acid can be selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid. The first polysaccharide can be selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polyhexose, polypentose, polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, inulin, pectin, and their derivatives. The first polysaccharide can be selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives, polyfructose, inulin, and polydextrose. The sustained-release coating can include sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, cellaburate, ethyl cellulose, glyceryl monooleate, alpha-modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, alpha-starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof.The first complex may be selected from the group consisting of a zinc - amino acid / polyfructose complex, a copper - amino acid / polyfructose complex, a selenium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, a manganese - amino acid / polyfructose complex, a chromium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and an iron - amino acid / polyfructose complex. The composition may further contain one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0007] In some cases, the composition may further comprise a second complex comprising a second compound conjugated to a second polysaccharide, wherein the second compound comprises a second mineral and a second amino acid, the second mineral is different from the first mineral, and the second complex is not coated with a sustained-release coating. The second mineral may be selected from the group consisting of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, and molybdenum. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be the same, or the first amino acid and the second amino acid may be different. The first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide may be selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polyhexose, polypentose, polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, inulin, pectin, and their derivatives. The first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide may be the same, or the first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide may be different. The first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide may be selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives, polyfructose, inulin, and polydextrose.The first complex can be selected from the group consisting of zinc - amino acid / polyfructose complex, copper - amino acid / polyfructose complex, selenium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, manganese - amino acid / polyfructose complex, chromium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and iron - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and the second complex can be selected from the group consisting of calcium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, iodine - amino acid / polyfructose complex, magnesium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, potassium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, molybdenum - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and boron - amino acid / polyfructose complex. The composition can further include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0008] In another aspect, the present specification features a method for preparing a coated mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex. The method includes, or can consist essentially of, the steps of: dry - blending (a) one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh, (b) a polysaccharide, and (c) a sustained - release coating material; granulating the dry - blended combination to produce a granulated material; and drying the granulated material. The drying step can include the use of a fluidized - bed dryer or a drying chamber. The method can further include the step of wet - milling the granulated material to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less, in which case the drying step can include drying the wet - milled granulated material.

[0009] In another aspect, the present specification features a composition containing, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a first compound that includes a first mineral bound to a first amino acid, where the first compound is coated with a sustained-release coating. The first mineral can be selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron. The first amino acid can be selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine. The first amino acid can be selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid. The sustained-release coating can include sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, celebrex, ethylcellulose, glyceryl monooleate, alpha-modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, alpha-starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof. The first compound can be selected from the group consisting of zinc-amino acid, copper-amino acid, selenium-amino acid, manganese-amino acid, chromium-amino acid, and iron-amino acid. The composition can further contain one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0010] In some cases, the composition may further comprise a second compound containing a second mineral bound to a second amino acid, where the second mineral is different from the first mineral and the second compound is not coated with a sustained-release coating. The second mineral may be selected from the group consisting of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, and molybdenum. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid. The first amino acid and the second amino acid may be the same, or the first amino acid and the second amino acid may be different. The first compound may be selected from the group consisting of zinc-amino acid, copper-amino acid, selenium-amino acid, manganese-amino acid, chromium-amino acid, and iron-amino acid, and the second compound may be selected from the group consisting of calcium-amino acid, iodine-amino acid, magnesium-amino acid, potassium-amino acid, molybdenum-amino acid, and boron-amino acid. The composition may further contain one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0011] In yet another aspect, the present specification features a method for making a coated mineral - amino acid compound. The method includes, or can consist essentially of, the steps of: (a) dry - blending a combination of one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh and (b) a sustained - release coating material; granulating the dry - blended combination to produce a granulated material; and drying the granulated material. The drying step can include the use of a fluid - bed dryer or a drying chamber. The method can further include the step of wet - milling the granulated material to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less.

[0012] In another aspect, the present specification features a method for making a coated mineral - amino acid compound, where the method includes, or can consist essentially of, the steps of dry - blending one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh in a fluidized bed, granulating the dry - blended compounds in the fluidized bed, and adding a sustained - release coating material to the mineral - amino acid compound during the dry - blending step, during the granulating step, or during both the dry - blending step and the granulating step. The method can further include the step of drying the granulated material. The fluidized bed can be in a top - spray configuration or a bottom - spray configuration.

[0013] This specification also features a composition comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts, wherein the particles are coated with a sustained-release coating. The one or more minerals or mineral salts can include one or more of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, iron, zinc salts, copper salts, selenium salts, manganese salts, chromium salts, and iron salts. The composition can further include particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts that are not coated with a sustained-release coating. The uncoated particles can contain one or more of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, molybdenum, sodium, magnesium salts, calcium salts, boron salts, iodine salts, potassium salts, molybdenum salts, and sodium salts. In some cases, the composition can include chromium salts, copper salts, manganese salts, zinc salts, iron salts, sodium salts, magnesium salts, and calcium salts. The sustained-release coating can include sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, celepitate, ethyl cellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof.

[0014] As used herein, the term "about", when used to refer to weight % in a composition, means ±10% of the reported weight %. As used herein, the term "about", when used to refer to a measured characteristic of a composition, means ±20% of the reported value. As used herein, the term "about", when used in connection with the conditions for making a composition, means ±20% of the value.

[0015] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0016] Details of one or more aspects of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Detailed Description In some cases, the present specification provides a complex comprising a mineral - amino acid compound optionally conjugated with a polysaccharide, a composition containing two or more mineral - amino acid complexes or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes, methods for making the complexes and the composition, and methods for using the complexes and the composition. The mineral - amino acid compound and the polysaccharide in the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex provided herein may be conjugated to each other by any suitable interaction. For example, the mineral - amino acid compound may be conjugated to the polysaccharide by one or more of covalent bond, coordination covalent bond, van der Waals interaction, hydrophobic bond, hydrogen bond, or ionic bond.

[0019] The mineral - amino acid compounds in the complexes and compositions provided herein may include any mineral having dietary or health benefits chelated, partially chelated, or complexed (e.g., forming a salt) by an amino acid. In some cases, the mineral - amino acid compound may be a mineral chelated by an amino acid. For example, the mineral - amino acid compound may be a mineral - amino acid complex or a salt. Examples of minerals that may be included in the complex include, without limitation, chromium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, zinc, selenium, iodine, and any combination thereof.

[0020] Any amino acid capable of forming a chelate or complex with a mineral can be used in the complexes and compositions provided herein. In some cases, for example, the amino acid portion of a mineral - amino acid compound can include one or more natural or non - natural amino acids. As used herein, the term "natural" amino acid refers to one of the 20 commonly occurring amino acids. Natural amino acids can be in the D - form or the L - form. For example, natural amino acids can be selected from the group consisting of L - alanine, L - arginine, L - asparagine, L - aspartic acid, L - cysteine, L - glutamic acid, L - glutamine, L - glycine, L - histidine, L - isoleucine, L - leucine, L - lysine, L - methionine, L - phenylalanine, L - proline, L - serine, L - threonine, L - tryptophan, L - tyrosine, L - valine, and combinations thereof. In some cases, for example, the amino acid can be L - glycine or L - aspartic acid.

[0021] When present, the polysaccharides in the complexes and compositions provided herein can include any suitable group of non - hydrolyzable sugars (monosaccharides) linked together. Non - limiting examples of suitable polysaccharides include cellulose derivatives, polyhexoses and their derivatives, and polypentoses and their derivatives. In some cases, the complex can include one or more polysaccharides selected from polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, pectin, fructooligosaccharides, and their derivatives. In some cases, the polysaccharide can be polyfructose (e.g., inulin). When included in the complexes provided herein, inulin can have a degree of polymerization in the range of about 2 to about 100 (e.g., about 2 to 10, about 12 to 15, about 20 to 30, about 25 to 45, about 30 to 40, about 50 to 75, about 45 to 65, about 50 to 55, about 70 to 80, about 75 to 90, or about 92 to 100).

[0022] The compositions provided herein containing mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes may contain combinations of different mineral - amino acid compound / polysaccharide complexes, where each of the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes comprises one or more mineral - amino acid compounds conjugated with one or more polysaccharides. For example, the composition may include a first complex containing a first mineral - first amino acid compound conjugated with a first polysaccharide and a second complex containing a second mineral - second amino acid compound conjugated with a second polysaccharide. It should be noted that various combinations of minerals, amino acids, and polysaccharides can be used in different complexes, and the same type of amino acid and / or polysaccharide can be combined with different minerals.

[0023] Accordingly, in some cases, the compositions provided herein contain one or more (e.g., two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, or six or more) mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes. For example, the composition may contain two or more of calcium - amino acid polysaccharide complex, iron - amino acid polysaccharide complex, iodine - amino acid polysaccharide complex, magnesium - amino acid polysaccharide complex, zinc - amino acid polysaccharide complex, selenium - amino acid polysaccharide complex, copper - amino acid polysaccharide complex, manganese - amino acid polysaccharide complex, molybdenum - amino acid polysaccharide complex, chromium - amino acid polysaccharide, and boron - amino acid polysaccharide complex. In some cases, the mineral - amino acid polysaccharide complex may comprise a mineral - amino acid compound containing 75% aspartic acid and 25% glycine acid. In some cases, the mineral - amino acid polysaccharide complex may contain polyfructose. In some cases, the mineral - amino acid polysaccharide complex may contain inulin having a degree of polymerization in the range of about 2 to about 100. For example, in some cases, the mineral - amino acid polysaccharide complex may contain inulin having a degree of polymerization of about 12 - 15.

[0024] The compositions provided herein that contain mineral - amino acid compounds may contain combinations of different mineral - amino acid compounds, where each of the mineral - amino acid compounds includes one or more minerals bound to one or more amino acids. For example, a composition may include a first compound containing a first mineral bound to a first amino acid and a second compound containing a second mineral bound to a second amino acid. It should be noted that various combinations of minerals and amino acids can be used in different compounds, that the same type of amino acid may be combined with different minerals, or that the same type of mineral may be combined with different amino acids.

[0025] Accordingly, in some cases, the compositions provided herein contain one or more (e.g., two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, or six or more) mineral - amino acid compounds. For example, the composition may contain two or more of calcium - amino acid compounds, iron - amino acid compounds, iodine - amino acid compounds, magnesium - amino acid compounds, zinc - amino acid compounds, selenium - amino acid compounds, copper - amino acid compounds, manganese - amino acid compounds, molybdenum - amino acid compounds, chromium - amino acid compounds, and boron - amino acid compounds. In some cases, the mineral - amino acid compounds may include a mineral - amino acid compound containing about 75% aspartic acid and about 25% glycine acid.

[0026] In some cases, the present specification provides a composition containing a mineral or mineral salt that is not chelated by an amino acid and not complexed with a polysaccharide. Any mineral having a dietary or health benefit may be included. Non-limiting examples of minerals and mineral salts that may be used and that are not chelated and not complexed include calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium citrate, magnesium lactate, chromium chloride, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, and any combination thereof.

[0027] In some cases, the composition provided herein can consist of, or consist essentially of, one or more of the described components. With respect to a composition, "consisting essentially of" means that the composition contains the designated components and may contain additional components that do not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the composition.

[0028] In each composition provided herein, at least one of a mineral or mineral salt, a mineral - amino acid compound, or a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex has a sustained - release coating that regulates and / or delays the release of the mineral from the complex and, thus, can prevent or delay the dissolution or disintegration of at least one mineral, compound, or complex in the stomach. In some cases, at least one other mineral or mineral salt, a mineral - amino acid compound, or a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex in the same composition lacks a sustained - release coating. Incorporating a sustained - release coating into a mineral or mineral salt, a mineral - amino acid complex, or a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex can reduce the likelihood that the mineral, mineral salt, mineral - amino acid compound, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex causes gastric upset after administration to a mammal. This is useful because some minerals are more likely than others to cause gastric upset. For example, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron are more likely than other minerals to cause gastric upset after ingestion. Thus, incorporating a sustained - release coating into a compound or complex containing one or more of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron can reduce the likelihood that the complex causes gastric upset. Complexes without a coating may contain other minerals such as magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, and / or molybdenum. Similarly, incorporating a sustained - release coating into a mineral or mineral salt containing one or more of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron can reduce the likelihood that the mineral or mineral salt causes gastric upset. Other minerals or mineral salts without a coating, such as magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, molybdenum, sodium, their salts, and any combination thereof, can also be included.Thus, in some cases, the compositions provided herein can include one or more coated minerals selected from zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, iron, and their salts (e.g., chromium, copper, manganese, zinc, and iron, or their salts), and one or more uncoated minerals selected from magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, molybdenum, sodium, and their salts (e.g., sodium, magnesium, and calcium, or their salts).

[0029] Any suitable material can be used in the coating. In some cases, for example, the composites described herein can have a coating comprising, without limitation, stearic acid, sodium alginate, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, celepitate, ethylcellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride and / or diglyceride, or any combination thereof.

[0030] The compositions provided herein may contain one or more coated mineral - amino acid complexes or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes. The coated complexes in the composition may be zinc - containing complexes, copper - containing complexes, selenium - containing complexes, manganese - containing complexes, chromium - containing complexes, iron - containing complexes, or any combination thereof (e.g., any two, three, four, five, or all six of zinc - containing complexes, copper - containing complexes, selenium - containing complexes, manganese - containing complexes, chromium - containing complexes, and iron - containing complexes). For example, the composition may be a zinc - containing complex and a copper - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex and a selenium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex and a manganese - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex and a chromium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex and an iron - containing complex; a copper - containing complex and a selenium - containing complex; a copper - containing complex and a manganese - containing complex; a copper - containing complex and a chromium - containing complex; a copper - containing complex and an iron - containing complex; a selenium - containing complex and a manganese - containing complex; a selenium - containing complex and a chromium - containing complex; a selenium - containing complex and an iron - containing complex; a manganese - containing complex and a chromium - containing complex; a manganese - containing complex and an iron - containing complex; a chromium - containing complex and an iron - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a copper - containing complex, and a selenium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a copper - containing complex, and a manganese - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a copper - containing complex, and a chromium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a copper - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and a manganese - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and a chromium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a manganese - containing complex, and a chromium - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a manganese - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a zinc - containing complex, a chromium - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and a manganese - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and a chromium - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a selenium - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a manganese - containing complex, and a chromium - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a manganese - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex; a copper - containing complex, a chromium - containing complex, and an iron - containing complex;Selenium-containing complex, manganese-containing complex, and chromium-containing complex; selenium-containing complex, manganese-containing complex, and iron-containing complex; selenium-containing complex, chromium-containing complex, and iron-containing complex; manganese-containing complex, chromium-containing complex, and iron-containing complex; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, and manganese-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, and chromium-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and chromium-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and chromium-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and chromium-containing compound; copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; copper-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, copper-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; zinc-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound; copper-containing compound, selenium-containing compound, manganese-containing compound, chromium-containing compound, and iron-containing compound;Or it may contain a combination of coated complexes including a zinc-containing complex, a copper-containing compound, a selenium-containing compound, a manganese-containing compound, a chromium-containing compound, and an iron-containing compound.;

[0031] The mineral-amino acid / polysaccharide complex in the compositions provided herein may contain any suitable ratio of a mineral-amino acid compound to a polysaccharide. For example, the (weight) ratio of the mineral-amino acid compound to the polysaccharide in the complex may range from 10:1 to 1:10 (e.g., 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1.5:1, 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, or 1:10). In some cases, the complex may have a ratio of the mineral-amino acid compound to the polysaccharide of 5:1 or a ratio of the mineral-amino acid compound to the polysaccharide of 1:1. In some cases, the mineral-amino acid / polysaccharide complex may be zinc aspartate:zinc glycinate:inulin (degree of polymerization of 12 to 15) having a weight ratio of 50:30:20. In some cases, the mineral-amino acid polysaccharide complex may be iron aspartate:iron glycinate:inulin (degree of polymerization of 2 to 10) having a weight ratio of 25:25:50.

[0032] The coated complex in the composition can contain any suitable amount of the coating, any suitable ratio of the coating to the complex, and any suitable ratio of the coating to the mineral - amino acid compound and the polysaccharide. For example, the amount of the coating in the coated complex can range from about 1 wt% to about 70 wt% (e.g., about 1 - 3 wt%, about 3 - 5 wt%, about 5 - 10 wt%, about 10 - 20 wt%, about 20 - 30 wt%, about 30 - 40 wt%, about 40 - 50 wt%, about 50 - 60 wt%, or about 60 - 70 wt%). The ratio of the coating to the mineral - amino acid compound and the polysaccharide can range from 1:100 to 7:10 (e.g., 1:100, 1:50, 3:100, 1:25, 1:20, 3:50, 7:100, 2:25, 9:100, 1:10, 1:5, 3:10, 2:5, 1:2, 3:5, or 7:10). In some cases, for example, the coated complex can contain a weight ratio of chelated or semi - chelated mineral:polysaccharide:coating of 6:1:1.

[0033] The complexes described herein can have properties that distinguish them from a simple mixture of the same mineral - amino acid compound and polysaccharide. For example, a complex of a mineral - amino acid compound and a polysaccharide can diffuse more slowly through a 3500 MW cut - off dialysis membrane than a non - complexed mixture of the same mineral - amino acid compound and polysaccharide. Further, the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex can exhibit a Fourier transform near - infrared (FT - NIR) spectrum different from that of a non - complexed mixture of the same mineral - amino acid compound and polysaccharide, as determined by industry standard correlation coefficients.

[0034] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may include one or more components in addition to the mineral - amino acid complex or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex. For example, the composition may include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus, and may or may not include other botanical and / or dietary components (e.g., fish oil, phosphatidylserine, Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceus, Aronia melanocapa, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, Curcuma longa, Bacopa moniera, grape extract, olive extract, Vaccinium myrtilus, Ginko biloba, or herbs containing polyphenols and flavonoids).

[0035] As used herein, the term "total daily dose" refers to the amount of the active ingredient administered over a 24 - hour period. For example, the amount of the zinc amino acid polysaccharide complex in the total daily dose is calculated based on the amount of zinc administered over a 24 - hour period, rather than the amount of the zinc amino acid polysaccharide complex administered over a 24 - hour period. The total daily dose can be prepared for administration in the form of one or more dosage units (e.g., two, three, four, five, or six tablets, capsules, gelcaps, softgels, or gummies). In some cases, one or more dosage units can be administered in one or more administrations (e.g., one dose, two doses, three doses, four doses, five doses, or six doses) over a 24 - hour period, where the total amount of the active ingredient in the one or more administrations does not exceed the total daily dose.

[0036] In some cases, the compositions provided herein can be formulated for oral administration and can contain suitable excipients, flavorings, colorants, and other ingredients. Tablets, capsules, gel capsules, softgels, or gummies for oral administration can be prepared with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients or carriers, such as binders, diluents, lubricants, disintegrants, or wetting agents. In some cases, for example, the compositions provided herein can contain a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for administration to a mammal.

[0037] In some cases, the compositions provided herein can contain pantothenic acid (e.g., as calcium pantothenate). Pantothenic acid can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition can contain an amount of pantothenic acid sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 10 mg to about 200 mg (e.g., about 10 to about 25 mg, about 25 to about 50 mg, about 50 to about 100 mg, about 100 to about 150 mg, or about 150 to about 200 mg).

[0038] In some cases, the compositions provided herein can contain calcium (e.g., as calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, calcium amino acid polysaccharide complex). Calcium can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition can contain an amount of calcium sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 200 mg to about 1000 mg (e.g., about 200 to about 250 mg, about 250 to about 500 mg, about 500 to about 750 mg, or about 750 to about 1000 mg).

[0039] In some cases, the compositions provided herein can contain iron (e.g., as iron amino acid polysaccharide complex). Iron can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition can contain an amount of iron sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 0.01 mg to about 18 mg (e.g., about 0.01 to about 0.1 mg, about 0.1 to about 0.5 mg, about 0.5 to about 1 mg, about 1 to about 3 mg, about 3 to about 5 mg, about 5 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 15 mg, or about 15 to about 18 mg).

[0040] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain phosphorus (e.g., as dicalcium phosphate). Phosphorus may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of phosphorus sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 0.01 mg to about 300 mg (e.g., about 0.01 to about 0.1 mg, about 0.1 to about 1 mg, about 1 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 50 mg, about 50 to about 100 mg, about 100 to about 200 mg, or about 200 to about 300 mg).

[0041] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain iodine (e.g., as an iodine amino acid polysaccharide complex). Iodine may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of iodine sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 100 μg to about 300 μg (e.g., about 100 to about 150 μg, about 150 to about 200 μg, about 200 to about 250 μg, or about 250 to about 300 μg).

[0042] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain magnesium (e.g., as magnesium oxide, magnesium lactate, magnesium citrate, magnesium amino acid polysaccharide complex). Magnesium may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of magnesium sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 100 to about 400 mg (e.g., about 100 to about 150 mg, about 150 to about 200 mg, about 200 to about 250 mg, about 250 to about 300 mg, or about 300 to about 400 mg).

[0043] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain zinc (e.g., as a zinc amino acid polysaccharide complex). Zinc may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of zinc sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 5 mg to about 30 mg (e.g., about 5 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 15 mg, about 15 to about 20 mg, about 20 to about 25 mg, or about 25 to about 30 mg).

[0044] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain selenium (e.g., as a selenium amino acid polysaccharide complex). Selenium can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of selenium sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 35 μg to about 150 μg (e.g., about 35 to about 50 μg, about 50 to about 75 μg, about 75 to about 100 μg, about 100 to about 125 μg, or about 125 to about 150 μg).

[0045] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain copper (e.g., as a copper amino acid polysaccharide complex). Copper can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of copper sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 1 mg to about 5 mg (e.g., about 1 to about 2 mg, about 2 to about 3 mg, about 3 to about 4 mg, or about 4 to about 5 mg).

[0046] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain manganese (e.g., as a manganese amino acid polysaccharide complex). Manganese can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of manganese sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 1 mg to about 5 mg (e.g., about 1 to about 2 mg, about 2 to about 3 mg, about 3 to about 4 mg, or about 4 to about 5 mg).

[0047] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain chromium (e.g., as a chromium amino acid polysaccharide complex). Chromium can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of chromium sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 60 μg to about 360 μg (e.g., about 60 to about 100 μg, about 100 to about 150 μg, about 150 to about 200 μg, about 200 to about 250 μg, about 250 to about 300 μg, or about 300 to about 360 μg).

[0048] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain molybdenum (e.g., as a molybdenum amino acid polysaccharide complex). Molybdenum can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of molybdenum sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 50 μg to about 150 μg (e.g., about 50 to about 75 μg, about 75 to about 100 μg, about 100 to about 125 μg, or about 125 to about 150 μg).

[0049] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain boron (e.g., as a boron amino acid polysaccharide complex). Boron can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of boron sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 0.01 μg to about 300 μg (e.g., about 0.01 to about 0.1 μg, about 0.1 to about 1 μg, about 1 to about 10 μg, about 10 to about 50 μg, about 50 to about 100 μg, about 100 to about 200 μg, or about 200 to about 300 μg).

[0050] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin A (e.g., as β-carotene). Vitamin A can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin A sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 1 IU to about 5000 IU (e.g., about 1 to about 10 IU, about 10 to about 100 IU, about 100 to about 500 IU, about 500 to about 1000 IU, about 1000 to about 2500 IU, or about 2500 to about 5000 IU).

[0051] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin C (e.g., as ascorbic acid). Vitamin C can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin C sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 5 mg to about 1000 mg (e.g., about 5 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 50 mg, about 50 to about 100 mg, about 100 to about 250 mg, about 250 to about 500 mg, or about 500 to about 1000 mg).

[0052] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin D (e.g., as cholecalciferol). Vitamin D can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin D sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 1 IU to about 4000 IU (e.g., about 1 to about 10 IU, about 10 to about 100 IU, about 100 to about 500 IU, about 500 to about 1000 IU, about 1000 to about 2000 IU, about 2000 to about 3000 IU, or about 3000 to about 4000 IU).

[0053] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin E (e.g., as d-α-tocopherol succinate). Vitamin E can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin E sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 5 IU to about 60 IU (e.g., about 5 to about 10 IU, about 10 to about 20 IU, about 20 to about 30 IU, about 30 to about 40 IU, about 40 to about 50 IU, or about 50 to about 60 IU).

[0054] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin K (e.g., as phylloquinone). Vitamin K can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin K sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 0.01 μg to about 56 μg (e.g., about 0.01 to about 0.1 μg, about 0.1 to about 1 μg, about 1 to about 10 μg, about 10 to about 20 μg, about 20 to about 30 μg, about 30 to about 40 μg, about 40 to about 50 μg, or about 50 to about 56 μg).

[0055] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain thiamine (e.g., as thiamine HCl). Thiamine can be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of thiamine sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 1.5 mg to about 15 mg (e.g., about 1.5 to about 2.5 mg, about 2.5 to about 5 mg, about 5 to about 8 mg, about 8 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 12 mg, or about 12 to about 15 mg).

[0056] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain riboflavin. Riboflavin may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of riboflavin sufficient to provide a daily dose of from about 1.7 mg to about 17 mg (e.g., from about 1.7 to about 2.5 mg, from about 2.5 to about 5 mg, from about 5 to about 7.5 mg, from about 7.5 to about 10 mg, from about 10 to about 12.5 mg, or from about 12.5 to about 15 mg).

[0057] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain niacin (e.g., as niacinamide). Niacin may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of niacin sufficient to provide a daily dose of from about 2 mg to about 100 mg (e.g., from about 2 to about 10 mg, from about 10 to about 25 mg, from about 25 to about 50 mg, from about 50 to about 100 mg, from about 100 to about 150 mg, or from about 150 to about 200 mg).

[0058] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin B6 (e.g., as pyridoxine HCl). Vitamin B6 may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of vitamin B6 sufficient to provide a daily dose of from about 2 mg to about 20 mg (e.g., from about 2 to about 5 mg, from about 5 to about 8 mg, from about 8 to about 10 mg, from about 10 to about 15 mg, or from about 15 to about 20 mg).

[0059] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain folate (e.g., as folic acid or methylfolate). Folate may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain an amount of folate sufficient to provide a daily dose of from about 200 μg to about 1200 μg (e.g., from about 200 to about 400 μg, from about 400 to about 600 μg, from about 600 to about 800 μg, from about 800 to about 1000 μg, or from about 1000 to about 1200 μg).

[0060] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain vitamin B12 (e.g., as cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin). Vitamin B12 may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain vitamin B12 in an amount sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 6 μg to about 18 μg (e.g., about 6 to about 8 μg, about 8 to about 10 μg, about 10 to about 12 μg, about 12 to about 14 μg, about 14 to about 16 μg, or about 16 to about 18 μg).

[0061] In some cases, the compositions provided herein may contain biotin (e.g., as d-biotin). Biotin may be included in any suitable amount. For example, the composition may contain biotin in an amount sufficient to provide a daily dose of about 20 μg to about 400 μg (e.g., about 20 to about 50 μg, about 50 to about 100 μg, about 100 to about 200 μg, about 200 to about 300 μg, or about 300 to about 400 μg).

[0062] In some cases, the composition may contain the components described in Table 1 or in any of Tables 2-12 (excluding excipients, carriers, or coatings).

[0063]

Table 1

[0064]

Table 2

[0065]

Table 3

[0066]

Table 4

[0067]

Table 5

[0068] [Table 6]

[0069] [Table 7]

[0070] [Table 8]

[0071] [Table 9]

[0072] [Table 10]

[0073] [Table 11]

[0074] [Table 12]

[0075] This specification also provides methods for making the complexes and compositions described herein. In some cases, the methods provided herein can consist essentially of particular steps. For a method to "consist essentially of" means that the method includes one or more specified steps and may contain additional steps that do not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the method.

[0076] In some cases, the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes described herein can be prepared by heating a mixture of water, one or more mineral - amino acid compounds, and one or more polysaccharides at a temperature of about 22°C to about 82°C (e.g., about 22°C, about 27°C, about 32°C, about 37°C, about 42°C, about 47°C, about 47°C, about 52°C, about 57°C, about 62°C, about 67°C, about 72°C, about 77°C, about 82°C, about 22°C to about 27°C, about 27°C to about 32°C, about 32°C to about 37°C, about 37°C to about 42°C, about 42°C to about 47°C, about 47°C to about 52°C, or about 52°C to about 57°C, about 62°C to about 67°C, about 67°C to about 72°C, about 72°C to about 77°C, or about 77°C to about 82°C). The mixture of water, one or more mineral - amino acid compounds, and one or more polysaccharides can be heated for any suitable length of time. For example, the mixture of water, one or more mineral - amino acid compounds, and one or more polysaccharides can be heated for about 5 minutes to about 30 minutes (e.g., about 5 minutes to about 10 minutes, about 10 minutes to about 15 minutes, about 15 minutes to about 20 minutes, about 20 minutes to about 25 minutes, or about 25 minutes to about 30 minutes). In some cases, after the heating step, the resulting complex can be dried to reduce its water content. For example, the complex can be dried to a water content of less than about 15% (e.g., less than about 14%, less than about 12%, less than about 10%, less than about 8%, less than about 5%, or less than about 2%). Any suitable method can be used to dry the complex. Note that the drying time and temperature can vary depending on the minerals in the complex being dried. For example, a complex containing zinc can be dried at a higher temperature and / or for a longer time than a complex containing other minerals.

[0077] In some cases, a combination of water, one or more mineral amino acid compounds, and one or more polysaccharides is mixed at room temperature (e.g., with a high-shear mixer) and then heated in a drying oven to achieve a water content of less than about 15% (e.g., less than about 14%, less than about 12%, less than about 10%, less than about 8%, less than about 5%, or less than about 2%). The mixture can be heated for any suitable length of time to achieve the desired water content. For example, a mixture of water, one or more mineral-amino acid compounds, and one or more polysaccharides can be heated for about 30 minutes to about 8 hours (e.g., about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes, about 1 hour to about 2 hours, about 2 hours to about 4 hours, about 4 hours to about 6 hours, or about 6 hours to about 8 hours).

[0078] In some cases, the methods provided herein for making the coated minerals or composites described herein can include one or more of the following steps.

[0079] First, one or more minerals, such as zinc, manganese, iron, copper, selenium, chromium, etc., can be chelated by an amino acid (e.g., glycine or aspartic acid) in the presence of sodium hydroxide via granulation with water at a temperature of about 65°C to about 85°C (e.g., about 65°C to about 70°C, about 70°C to about 75°C, about 75°C to about 80°C, or about 80°C to about 85°C). After the reaction process is complete, the mineral-amino acid compound can be dried at a temperature of 40°C to 80°C and then ground to a particle size of about 10 to 200 mesh (e.g., 10 to 30 mesh, 30 to 50 mesh, 50 to 70 mesh, 70 to 80 mesh, 80 to 90 mesh, 90 to 100 mesh, 100 to 120 mesh, 120 to 140 mesh, 140 to 160 mesh, 160 to 180 mesh, or 180 to 200 mesh).

[0080] In some cases, the mineral - amino acid compound produced as described above (or a commercially available mineral - amino acid material that is fully or partially chelated and meets the particle size criteria of 10 - 200 mesh) can be combined with a polysaccharide (e.g., polyfructose and / or inulin) and a coating material (e.g., stearic acid, sodium alginate, or any other suitable coating material).

[0081] In some cases, the combined mineral - amino acid compound (and polysaccharide if included) can be mixed with the coating material, or without the coating material, using a method (e.g., dry blending) that gives a homogeneous mixture of the two components. It should be noted that in some cases, the coating material may be included in the mixture, but in other cases, the coating material may be dissolved in a granulation solvent and introduced after this step. Generally, the more vigorously the components are stirred, the better they bind together.

[0082] The blended material can then be granulated (e.g., in a high - shear granulator), thereby providing further high - strength blending of the components of the composite. In some cases, the material can be blended (e.g., dry blended) and granulated in a fluidized bed using either a top - spray or bottom - spray configuration. In such cases, the coating material may be added at the blending stage (e.g., the dry - blending stage), added to the granulation solution, or both.

[0083] The granulated material can then be subjected to wet grinding in order to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less (e.g., 10 - 20 mesh, 20 - 30 mesh, 30 - 40 mesh, 40 - 50 mesh, 50 - 60 mesh, 60 - 70 mesh, 70 - 80 mesh, 80 - 90 mesh, 90 - 100 mesh, or smaller than 100 mesh). Wet grinding can be carried out, for example, by a conical mill.

[0084] Next, the pulverized material can be dried. In some cases, for example, the pulverized material can be dried in a fluidized bed dryer at a temperature of about 20°C to about 100°C (e.g., about 20°C to about 40°C, about 40°C to about 60°C, about 60°C to about 80°C, or about 80°C to about 100°C) for about 30 minutes to about 8 hours (e.g., about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes, about 1 hour to about 2 hours, about 2 hours to about 4 hours, about 4 hours to about 6 hours, or about 6 hours to about 8 hours), which can achieve relatively gentle drying of the material, avoid the need for a further pulverization step at the end of the process, and thus preserve the integrity of the coated particles. In some cases, the dried particles can be screened through a vibratory or centrifugal shifter using a screen size of 10 to 200 mesh (e.g., 10 to 30 mesh, 30 to 50 mesh, 50 to 70 mesh, 70 to 80 mesh, 80 to 90 mesh, 90 to 100 mesh, or 100 to 120 mesh, 120 to 140 mesh, 140 to 160 mesh, 160 to 180 mesh, or 180 to 200 mesh).

[0085] When using non-chelated minerals or mineral salts, the minerals or mineral salts can optionally be ground to a particle size of about 10 to 200 mesh (e.g., 10 to 30 mesh, 30 to 50 mesh, 50 to 70 mesh, 70 to 80 mesh, 80 to 90 mesh, 90 to 100 mesh, 100 to 120 mesh, 120 to 140 mesh, 140 to 160 mesh, 160 to 180 mesh, or 180 to 200 mesh). Particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts (e.g., one or more of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, iron, and their salts) can be combined with a coating material (e.g., stearic acid, sodium alginate, or any other suitable coating material). In some cases, the minerals or mineral salts can be mixed using a method (e.g., dry blending) that gives a homogeneous mixture, with or without the coating material. In some cases, the coating material may be included in the blend, but in other cases, it should be noted that the coating material may be dissolved in the granulation solvent and introduced after this step. Generally, the more vigorously the components are stirred, the better they bind together.

[0086] The blended mineral or mineral salt material can then be granulated (e.g., in a high-shear granulator), thereby providing further high-intensity blending of the components of the composite. In some cases, the material can be blended (e.g., dry blended) and granulated in a fluidized bed using either a top spray or bottom spray configuration. In such cases, the coating material may be added at the blending stage (e.g., the dry blending stage), added to the granulation solution, or both.

[0087] Next, the granulated material can be subjected to wet grinding to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less (e.g., 10 - 20 mesh, 20 - 30 mesh, 30 - 40 mesh, 40 - 50 mesh, 50 - 60 mesh, 60 - 70 mesh, 70 - 80 mesh, 80 - 90 mesh, 90 - 100 mesh, or less than 100 mesh). Wet grinding can be carried out, for example, by a conical mill.

[0088] Next, the ground material can be dried. In some cases, for example, the ground material can be dried in a fluidized bed dryer at a temperature of about 20°C to about 100°C (e.g., about 20°C to about 40°C, about 40°C to about 60°C, about 60°C to about 80°C, or about 80°C to about 100°C) for about 30 minutes to about 8 hours (e.g., about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes, about 1 hour to about 2 hours, about 2 hours to about 4 hours, about 4 hours to about 6 hours, or about 6 hours to about 8 hours), which can achieve relatively gentle drying of the material, avoid the need for a further grinding step at the end of the process, and thus preserve the integrity of the coated particles. In some cases, the dried particles can be screened through a vibratory or centrifugal shifter using a screen size of 10 - 200 mesh (e.g., 10 - 30 mesh, 30 - 50 mesh, 50 - 70 mesh, 70 - 80 mesh, 80 - 90 mesh, 90 - 100 mesh, or 100 - 120 mesh, 120 - 140 mesh, 140 - 160 mesh, 160 - 180 mesh, or 180 - 200 mesh).

[0089] The mineral - amino acid compounds and mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes described herein can reduce the formation of free radicals in the intestinal tract as compared to uncomplexed minerals (e.g., sulfates, chlorides, citrates, or gluconates of minerals). In some cases, the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes can be iron - amino acid / polyfructose complexes, or copper - amino acid / polyfructose complexes, or iron - glycinate / inulin, iron - aspartate / inulin, or copper - glycinate / inulin complexes. In some cases, the uncomplexed minerals can be inorganic salts (e.g., sulfates, chlorides, or oxides of minerals). The reduction in the formation of free radicals can include, for example, a reduction in the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radicals, peroxides, and superoxide radicals. ROS can initiate a radical chain reaction in the body. For example, uncomplexed minerals provided in a dietary supplement can catalyze the formation of ROS that can oxidize one or more antioxidants (e.g., ascorbic acid, tocopherol, carotenoids, lipoic acid, natural plant phenols and flavonoids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids) derived from the dietary supplement. Without being bound by theory, the complexed minerals can be protected by amino acids and / or polysaccharides and thus have a reduced ability to catalyze free radical formation. When the complexed minerals are administered in the form of a dietary supplement, the reduction in the formation of free radicals can reduce the oxidation of antioxidants present in the dietary supplement.

[0090] Accordingly, the present specification further provides a method of providing a mixture of a mineral and an antioxidant to a mammal, in which oxidation catalyzed by the mineral is reduced. In some cases, the method can include administering to the mammal a composition containing the mineral and the antioxidant, where the mineral is in the form of a mineral - amino acid complex or a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex as described herein, and the mineral - amino acid complex or the mineral - amino acid polysaccharide complex exhibits a reduction in the oxidation of the antioxidant catalyzed by the mineral as compared to the mineral administered as the corresponding uncomplexed mineral or inorganic salt. The reduction in oxidation can be, for example, at least a 10% reduction in oxidation (e.g., at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% reduction) compared to the level of oxidation caused by the mineral administered as the corresponding uncomplexed mineral or inorganic salt.

[0091] In addition to the stabilization of antioxidants present in dietary supplements, the reduction in the formation of free radicals can also reduce the oxidation of biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, and DNA. In some cases, the oxidative damage of biomolecules can lead to the formation of many different intermediate radicals, including toxic and / or pathogenic products. Such radical species can alter the structure and / or function of biomolecules and, for example, can induce degenerative diseases, inflammation, cancer, and atherosclerosis.

[0092] The present disclosure provides a method of reducing free radical formation, reducing the amount of free radicals, and reducing the oxidation of antioxidants in a mammal or cell using one or more minerals or mineral salts, mineral - amino acid complexes, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes described herein. For example, complexes such as iron - amino acid / polysaccharide or copper - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes can be used to reduce free radical formation and / or amount and reduce the oxidation of antioxidants in a mammal or cell (e.g., intestinal cells). In some cases, the reduction in free radical formation and / or amount, and the decrease in antioxidant oxidation can occur in the intestine of a mammal after ingestion of a composition provided herein containing one or more mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes.

[0093] In some cases, the methods provided herein can include, in vitro, contacting a cell with a composition containing a mineral or mineral salt, mineral - amino acid complex, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex described herein, where the contacting results in a reduction in free radical formation, a reduction in the amount of free radicals, and / or a decrease in the oxidation of antioxidants (e.g., antioxidants selected from ascorbic acid, tocopherol, carotenoids, lipoic acid, natural plant phenols and flavonoids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids). For example, the contacting can be performed using cells in which free radicals or antioxidants are present. In some cases, the in vitro method can be performed in a cell - free medium. Use of such in vitro methods for reducing free radical formation includes, but is not limited to, use in screening assays (e.g., where a mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex is used as a positive control or standard for comparison to a compound of unknown activity or efficacy in reducing free radical formation).

[0094] In some cases, the method can be used in vivo, for example, to reduce free radical formation, reduce the amount of free radicals, and / or reduce the oxidation of antioxidants. Such a method can be carried out, for example, by contacting cells in vivo (e.g., in a mammalian body) with two or more minerals or mineral salts, mineral - amino acid complexes, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes, where at least one of the mineral or mineral salt, mineral - amino acid complex, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex has a sustained - release coating. In some cases, the method can include administering to a mammal a composition containing two or more mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes, where at least one of the mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes has a sustained - release coating, and the composition is administered in an effective amount, for example, to reduce free radical formation. The complexes administered to the cells or the mammal can also include mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes without a sustained - release coating.

[0095] In some cases, the methods provided herein can be used to treat or reduce the likelihood of a disease or clinical condition (e.g., a degenerative disease, inflammation, cancer, or arteriosclerosis) in a mammal by reducing free radical formation and / or the amount of free radicals in the mammal. The method can include administering to the mammal, in an effective amount, a composition provided herein, where the composition includes two or more minerals or mineral salts, mineral - amino acid complexes, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complexes, at least one of the mineral or mineral salt, mineral - amino acid complex, or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex has a sustained - release coating, and at least one of the mineral - amino acid complex or mineral - amino acid / polysaccharide complex does not have a sustained - release coating. The effective amount of the composition or complex can be, for example, the daily dosage shown in the tables herein.

[0096] Exemplary embodiments Aspect 1 is a composition comprising a first complex comprising a first compound conjugated to a first polysaccharide, wherein the first compound comprises a first mineral and a first amino acid, and the first complex is coated with a sustained-release coating, which is the composition.

[0097] Aspect 2 is the composition of Aspect 1, wherein the first mineral is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron.

[0098] Aspect 3 is the composition of Aspect 1 or Aspect 2, wherein the first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine.

[0099] Aspect 4 is the composition of Aspect 1 or Aspect 2, wherein the first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid.

[0100] Aspect 5 is the composition of any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the first polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polyhexose, polypentose, polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, inulin, pectin, and their derivatives.

[0101] Aspect 6 is the composition of any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the first polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives, polyfructose, inulin, and polydextrose.

[0102] Aspect 7 is a composition according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the sustained-release coating contains sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, cellaburate, ethyl cellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof.

[0103] Aspect 8 is a composition according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, wherein the first complex is one of the following: zinc - amino acid / polyfructose complex, copper - amino acid / polyfructose complex, selenium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, manganese - amino acid / polyfructose complex, chromium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and iron - amino acid / polyfructose complex selected from the group consisting of.

[0104] Aspect 9 is a composition according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, further comprising one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0105] Aspect 10 further comprises a second complex comprising a second compound conjugated to a second polysaccharide, the second compound contains a second mineral and a second amino acid, the second mineral is different from the first mineral, and the second complex is not coated with a sustained-release coating. It is a composition according to any one of Aspects 1 to 9.

[0106] Aspect 11 is the composition of Aspect 10, wherein the second mineral is selected from the group consisting of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, and molybdenum.

[0107] Aspect 12 is the composition of Aspect 10 or Aspect 11, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine.

[0108] Aspect 13 is the composition of Aspect 10 or Aspect 11, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid.

[0109] Aspect 14 is the composition of any one of Aspects 10 to 13, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are the same.

[0110] Aspect 15 is the composition of any one of Aspects 10 to 13, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are different.

[0111] Aspect 16 is the composition of any one of Aspects 10 to 15, wherein the first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide are selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polyhexose, polypentose, polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, inulin, pectin, and their derivatives.

[0112] Aspect 17 is the composition of any one of Aspects 10 to 16, wherein the first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide are the same.

[0113] Aspect 18 is any one of Aspects 10 to 16, where the first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide are different, in a composition.

[0114] Aspect 19 is any one of Aspects 10 to 18, where the first polysaccharide and the second polysaccharide are selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives, polyfructose, inulin, and polydextrose, in a composition.

[0115] Aspect 20 is such that the first complex is one of the following: zinc - amino acid / polyfructose complex, copper - amino acid / polyfructose complex, selenium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, manganese - amino acid / polyfructose complex, chromium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and iron - amino acid / polyfructose complex selected from the group consisting of, and the second complex is one of the following: calcium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, iodine - amino acid / polyfructose complex, magnesium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, potassium - amino acid / polyfructose complex, molybdenum - amino acid / polyfructose complex, and boron - amino acid / polyfructose complex selected from the group consisting of, and is any one of Aspects 10 to 19, in a composition.

[0116] Aspect 21 is any one of Aspects 10 to 20, further comprising one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus, in a composition.

[0117] Aspect 22 is a process of dry-blending (a) one or more mineral-amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh, (b) a polysaccharide, and (c) a sustained-release coating material. A process of granulating the dry-blended combination to produce a granulated material, and A process of drying the granulated material A method for producing a coated mineral-amino acid / polysaccharide complex, comprising:

[0118] Aspect 23 is the method of Aspect 22, wherein the drying process includes the use of a fluidized bed dryer.

[0119] Aspect 24 is the method of Aspect 22 or Aspect 23, further comprising a process of wet grinding the granulated material to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less.

[0120] Aspect 25 is a composition comprising a first compound comprising a first mineral bound to a first amino acid, wherein the first compound is coated with a sustained-release coating, the composition.

[0121] Aspect 26 is the composition of Aspect 25, wherein the first mineral is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron.

[0122] Aspect 27 is the composition of Aspect 25 or Aspect 26, wherein the first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine.

[0123] Aspect 28 is the composition of Aspect 25 or Aspect 26, wherein the first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid.

[0124] Aspect 29 is the composition of any one of Aspects 25 to 28, wherein the sustained-release coating contains sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, celebrex, ethyl cellulose, glyceryl monooleate, alpha-modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, alpha-starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof.

[0125] Aspect 30 is the composition of any one of Aspects 25 to 29, wherein the first compound is selected from the following: zinc-amino acid, copper-amino acid, selenium-amino acid, manganese-amino acid, chromium-amino acid, and iron-amino acid and is selected from the group consisting thereof.

[0126] Aspect 31 is the composition of any one of Aspects 25 to 30, further comprising one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0127] Aspect 32 further comprises a second compound containing a second mineral bonded to a second amino acid, the second mineral is different from the first mineral, and the second compound is not coated with a sustained-release coating. It is a composition according to any one of Aspects 25 to 31.

[0128] Aspect 33 is the composition of Aspect 32, wherein the second mineral is selected from the group consisting of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, and molybdenum.

[0129] Aspect 34 is the composition of Aspect 32 or Aspect 33, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine.

[0130] Aspect 35 is the composition of Aspect 32 or Aspect 33, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are selected from the group consisting of L-glycine and L-aspartic acid.

[0131] Aspect 36 is the composition of any one of Aspects 32 to 35, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are the same.

[0132] Aspect 37 is the composition of any one of Aspects 32 to 35, wherein the first amino acid and the second amino acid are different.

[0133] Aspect 38 is such that the first compound is selected from the following: zinc - amino acid, copper - amino acid, selenium - amino acid, manganese - amino acid, chromium - amino acid, and iron - amino acid and is selected from the group consisting of, and the second compound is selected from the following: calcium - amino acid, iodine - amino acid, Magnesium - amino acid, Potassium - amino acid, Molybdenum - amino acid, and Boron - amino acid selected from the group consisting of, is a composition of any one of Aspects 32 to 37.

[0134] Aspect 39 is a composition of any one of Aspects 32 to 38, further comprising one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

[0135] Aspect 40 is a method for producing a coated mineral - amino acid compound, comprising the steps of dry - mixing (a) one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh and (b) a sustained - release coating material, granulating the dry - mixed combination to produce a granulated material, and drying the granulated material is a method for producing a coated mineral - amino acid compound, comprising the steps of dry - mixing (a) one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh and (b) a sustained - release coating material,

[0136] Aspect 41 is the method of Aspect 40, wherein the drying step includes the use of a fluidized - bed dryer.

[0137] Aspect 42 is the method of Aspect 40 or Aspect 41, further comprising the step of wet - grinding the granulated material to reduce the particle size of the material to 10 mesh or less.

[0138] Aspect 43 is a method comprising the steps of dry - mixing one or more mineral - amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than about 80 mesh in a fluidized bed, granulating the dry - mixed compound in the fluidized bed, and A step of adding a sustained-release coating material to the mineral-amino acid compound during the dry mixing step, during the granulation step, or during both the dry mixing step and the granulation step A method for producing a coated mineral-amino acid compound, comprising:

[0139] Aspect 44 is the method of Aspect 43, further comprising a step of drying the granulated material.

[0140] Aspect 45 is the method of Aspect 43 or Aspect 44, wherein the fluidized bed is in a top spray configuration.

[0141] Aspect 46 is the method of Aspect 43 or Aspect 44, wherein the fluidized bed is in a bottom spray configuration.

[0142] Aspect 47 is a composition comprising particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts, wherein the particles are coated with a sustained-release coating. The composition.

[0143] Aspect 48 is the composition of Aspect 47, wherein the one or more minerals or mineral salts comprise one or more of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, iron, zinc salts, copper salts, selenium salts, manganese salts, chromium salts, and iron salts.

[0144] Aspect 49 is the composition of Aspect 47 or Aspect 48, further comprising particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts that are not coated with a sustained-release coating.

[0145] Aspect 50 is the composition of Aspect 49, wherein the uncoated particles comprise one or more of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, molybdenum, sodium, magnesium salts, calcium salts, boron salts, iodine salts, potassium salts, molybdenum salts, and sodium salts.

[0146] Aspect 51 is as follows: A chromium salt, A copper salt, A manganese salt, A zinc salt, An iron salt, A sodium salt, A magnesium salt, and A calcium salt which is a composition of Aspect 49 or Aspect 50 and contains them.

[0147] Aspect 52 is a composition of any one of Aspects 47 to 51, wherein the sustained-release coating contains sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, celebrate, ethyl cellulose, glyceryl monooleate, alpha-modified starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta dextrin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, alpha-starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglyceride, diglyceride, or any combination thereof.

[0148] The present invention will be further described in the following examples, which do not limit the scope of the present invention described in the claims.

Examples

[0149] Using sodium alginate as a film-forming polymer, a coated magnesium - amino acid / polysaccharide sample was prepared in a top-spray fluidized bed. This method included a high-shear granulation step followed by a fluidized bed coating step.

[0150] In a Kitchen Aid mixer, a high-shear granulation process was carried out to granulate 500 grams of magnesium bisglycinate using water at 40 °C and a 2% solution of sodium alginate. Since the amount of granulation solution used was 125 grams, the amount of sodium alginate introduced into the granulation was 2.5 grams, i.e., 0.5 wt%. After granulation, drying was carried out at 65 °C for 12 hours. After drying, the material was passed through a 20-mesh screen to remove lumps.

[0151] Next, for the coating process, the material was transferred to a Freund-Vector fluid bed (model #FL-Multi-1; Freund-Vector Corp., Marion, IA) and spray-coated using the following processing parameters: Spray coating solution: 750 g of water and 10 g of sodium alginate Inlet air temperature: 70 °C Product temperature: 45 °C Air flow setting: 1.25 CFU / m Spray pump RPM 6.3 Nozzle air pressure 9.5 psi Spraying was carried out for 9.2 hours, at which point spraying was stopped and drying was continued at an inlet temperature of 70 °C for 30 minutes. The material was cooled for 45 minutes and then passed through a 12-mesh screen to remove lumps. The total sodium alginate content in the finished product was 2.5 wt%.

[0152] An image of the coated material compared to the uncoated material is shown in Figure 1. When 25 g of the coated or uncoated material was mixed with 450 mL of water at 37 °C, the uncoated material dissolved substantially within about 20 minutes, while most of the coated material remained undissolved in the same time. Thus, granulation and coating delayed the release of the highly soluble magnesium chelate into the solution.

[0153] Other aspects The present invention has been described along with its detailed description, and it should be understood that the above description is for illustrative purposes of the present invention and not for limiting the scope of the present invention defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A composition comprising particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts, The particles are coated with a sustained-release coating. The composition.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the one or more minerals or mineral salts include one or more of the following: zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, iron, zinc salts, copper salts, selenium salts, manganese salts, chromium salts, and iron salts.

3. The composition according to claim 1, further comprising particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts that are not coated with a sustained-release coating.

4. The composition according to claim 3, wherein the uncoated particles comprise one or more of magnesium, calcium, boron, iodine, potassium, molybdenum, sodium, magnesium salts, calcium salts, boron salts, iodine salts, potassium salts, molybdenum salts, and sodium salts.

5. below: Chromium salts, copper salts, Manganese salt, Zinc salts, Iron salts, Sodium salt, Magnesium salts, and calcium salts The composition according to claim 3, comprising:

6. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the sustained-release coating comprises sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, cellaburate, ethylcellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta-dex, hydroxypropylcellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglycerides, diglycerides, or any combination thereof.

7. A process of dry mixing one or more types of minerals or mineral salts in a fluidized bed. A step of granulating the dry-mixed one or more types of minerals or mineral salts in the fluidized bed, and A step of adding a sustained-release coating material to one or more types of minerals or mineral salts during the dry mixing step, during the granulation step, or during both the dry mixing step and the granulation step. A method for producing coated particles of one or more minerals or mineral salts, including [the specified substance].

8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising the step of drying the granulated material.

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the fluidized bed has a top spray configuration.

10. The method according to claim 7, wherein the fluidized bed has a bottom spray configuration.

11. A composition comprising a first complex containing a first compound conjugated with a first polysaccharide, The first compound comprises a first mineral and a first amino acid, and the first complex is coated with a sustained-release coating. The composition.

12. The first mineral is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron; and / or The first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine; and / or The first polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polyhexose, polypentose, polydextrose, starch, polygalactan, polymannan, chitin, chitosan, chondroitin, polyfructose, inulin, pectin, and derivatives thereof; and / or The sustained-release coating comprises sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, cellabrade, ethylcellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta-dex, hydroxypropylcellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglycerides, diglycerides, or any combination thereof; The composition according to claim 11.

13. The first complex is as follows: Zinc-amino acid / polyfructose complex, Copper-amino acid / polyfructose complex, Selenium-amino acid / polyfructose complex, Manganese-amino acid / polyfructose complex, Chromium-amino acid / polyfructose complex, and Iron-amino acid / polyfructose complex A composition according to claim 11, selected from the group consisting of the following.

14. The composition according to claim 11, further comprising one or more of the following: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, fole, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus.

15. (a) A dry mixing step of a combination of one or more mineral-amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than approximately 80 mesh, (b) a polysaccharide, and (c) a sustained-release coating material. A step of granulating the dry-mixed combination in order to produce a granulated material, and A process of drying the granulated material. A method for producing coated mineral-amino acid / polysaccharide complexes containing [the specified substance].

16. A composition comprising a first compound containing a first mineral bound to a first amino acid, The first compound is coated with a sustained-release coating. The composition.

17. The first mineral is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and iron; and / or The first amino acid is selected from the group consisting of L-alanine, L-arginine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-cysteine, L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, and L-valine; and / or The sustained-release coating comprises sodium alginate, stearic acid, carbomer copolymer, shellac, hypromellose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, cellabrade, ethylcellulose, glyceryl monooleate, pregelatinized starch, glyceryl monostearate, guar gum, hydroxypropyl beta-dex, hydroxypropylcellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl acetate dispersion, pregelatinized starch, xanthan gum, alginic acid, locust bean gum, hydrogenated vegetable oil, monoglycerides, diglycerides, or any combination thereof; The composition according to claim 16.

18. (a) A dry mixing process of one or more mineral-amino acid compounds having a particle size smaller than approximately 80 mesh and (b) a sustained-release coating material. A step of granulating the dry-mixed combination in order to produce a granulated material, and A process of drying the granulated material. A method for producing coated mineral-amino acid compounds, including [the specified substance].

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