Pharmacokinetics of liposomal multinutrients versus non-liposomal comparators in a randomized crossover trial

Liposomal delivery systems are utilized to enhance the bioavailability of nutrients. In this randomized, double-blind, two-period crossover clinical trial, healthy Korean adults ( n = 20) were enrolled to assess the absorption of liposomal multinutrients compared to composition-matched non-liposomal comparators. Two distinct liposomal multinutrient formulations (LMN-1 and LMN-2) were compared with two corresponding non-liposomal multinutrient products (NLMN-1 and NLMN-2). Pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters—including C_max, T_max, and incremental area under the curve (iAUC)—were analyzed for vitamin B3, vitamin C, zinc, and iron. Vitamin C and zinc concentrations were significantly higher from 1 to 8 h and 0–6 h, respectively, while iron concentrations were elevated at most time points for the liposomal group. No clinically significant adverse events were observed during the study period. These findings indicate that liposomal multinutrients improve nutrient absorption and demonstrate good tolerability in humans. The results support the application of liposomal formulations in functional foods as a strategy to enhance nutrient delivery. • A randomized, double-blind, two-period crossover human trial evaluated a liposomal multinutrient formulation. • Plasma vitamin B3, vitamin C, zinc, and iron showed higher exposure with liposomes (C_max, iAUC_{0−12 h }). • In prespecified time windows, concentrations were higher with liposomes (p-values). • Pooled iAUC was 2–3.5× greater with liposomes, supporting improved short-term absorption. • No serious adverse events and no clinically meaningful lab shifts were observed.