Iranian firm launches herbal gummy supplements for children

An Iranian pharmaceutical company based at Tehran's Pardis Technology Park has introduced a new line of herbal-based gummy supplements for children, a development that is expected to save the country between $3 million and $4 million in foreign currency annually. The product addresses a common problem: many children refuse to take conventional supplements due to their bitter taste, which can put their health at risk.

Mohammadreza Fazeli, CEO of the company, said the production line for the gummies was launched for the first time in Golestan province. He noted that the product contains no animal-derived gelatin and instead uses pectin, while its colors are made from natural ingredients. "Two products are currently available on the market: a children's multivitamin and a children's vitamin D supplement," Fazeli said. "Children who, for any reason, cannot take supplements in conventional pharmaceutical forms can use these products because the gummies are tasty and have a fruity flavor."

Majid Lavasani, the company's production manager, described the product as the first gummy being manufactured as a pharmaceutical supplement in Iran. "This is the first gummy being produced as a pharmaceutical product in the country, and thankfully, it has received relatively good market acceptance," he said. He added that the idea was developed around children's preference for the shape and taste of gummies. "Since children are very interested in the form and taste of gummies, how good is it to put multivitamins and minerals inside them instead of harmful substances and artificial colors, so that children enjoy them while also receiving the vitamins and minerals they need," Lavasani said.

Amin Esmaeili, the company's research and development manager, said the product is made using natural ingredients and is designed to be free of common allergens. "The product is completely non-allergenic. We use natural ingredients and do not use chemical substances," he said. Esmaeili added that domestic formulation and sourcing of the raw materials have also helped reduce reliance on imports.

According to Mehr News Agency, the initiative is part of broader efforts by Iranian knowledge-based firms to promote domestic production and reduce foreign dependency. The company's success could pave the way for similar products in the Iranian market, offering a healthier and more appealing option for children's nutritional needs.