Development and Evaluation of Herbal-Enriched Nutraceutical Gummies for Pediatric Health

Background: Nutraceuticals, which combine the nutritional benefits of food with the therapeutic effects of pharmaceuticals, offer a promising approach to enhancing children's health and well-being. Among these, herbal-enriched nutraceuticals stand out due to their potential to deliver a range of health benefits derived from natural plant sources. Aim: This study aimed to develop gummies with Elettaria cardamomum, Amomum subulatum Roxb, Zingiber officinale, Beta vulgaris L. using different concentrations of gelling agents, plasticizers and pH modifiers. Materials and Methods: Gelatin was tested at concentrations of 8% and 10%. The objective was to assess concentration of gelling agents that affect the physical properties of the gummies, such as visual appearance, dispersion time, and texture profile (hardness, chewiness, and gumminess). The gummies were heated and allowed to set before being evaluated using a randomized method. The type and concentration of the gelling agents, as well as their interaction, had significant effects on dispersion time, appearance, hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. Conclusion: Gummies made with 8% gelatine were found to be the best formulations, meeting all physical property requirements, showing no syneresis, and having the most pleasant texture.