From fish scales and Sachi seeds to high-tech capsules: The scientific journey of indigenous values
Soft capsules containing collagen from fish scales and omega-3,6,9-rich oil from Sachi seeds
The project “Production of soft capsules containing collagen from fish scales and omega-3,6,9-rich oil from Sachi seeds” (code: UDSXTN.06/23-24) is the result of years of accumulated scientific research, beginning with foundational studies at the Institute of Tropical Technology (now the Institute of Materials Science) since 2019. The team focused on raw material processing, collagen quality assessment, extraction methods and application trials, laying the groundwork for a systematic and long-term development direction.
Associate Professor, Dr Nguyen Thuy Chinh and students in the laboratory
On that basis, the group led by Associate Professor, Dr Nguyen Thuy Chinh carried out in-depth studies to clarify the molecular structure, physico-chemical properties, biocompatibility and modification capacity of collagen extracted from Vietnamese freshwater fish scales. A project under the Academy’s young scientist support programme modified fibrous collagen and combined it with active substances to create haemostatic materials and wound-treatment support products; it was rated excellent upon completion in 2022. The results provided an important data system on the safety, effectiveness and application potential of collagen in health care.
In 2021, the process for extracting collagen from Vietnamese freshwater fish scales was protected by Utility Solution Patent No. 2775, establishing detailed parameters from raw material processing, hydrolysis and purification to structural stabilisation. The process helps ensure a domestic collagen supply, standardise quality and expand production capacity. According to Associate Professor, Dr Nguyen Thuy Chinh, persistence in pursuing this research direction has helped the team better understand the nature of the raw materials, thereby developing products based on technological optimisation.
Mastering technology to unlock the value of indigenous materials
Based on these research results, the team developed a complete technological roadmap aimed at producing health-care products meeting quality standards. In collagen extraction, the combination of enzymes and ultrasonic waves helped improve efficiency while controlling molecular weight and peptide characteristics — key factors determining solubility and absorption. The resulting collagen has high purity, with no detected heavy metals, while preserving its characteristic structure and meeting requirements for food and pharmaceutical applications.
At the same time, the team collaborated with Associate Professor, Dr Nguyen Phi Hung at the Institute of Chemistry to extract Sachi seed oil using a process that limits the degradation of unsaturated fatty acids. The results showed that the total omega-3,6,9 content accounted for more than 90% of total fatty acids, with omega-3 reaching nearly 48%, equivalent to or higher than many domestic and international reports, confirming the potential of Sachi grown in Vietnam.
The soft-capsule production technology was implemented in collaboration with Vietnam Medicinal Materials Joint Stock Company, examining factors ranging from the core and shell formulation, gelatin membrane thickness and plasticiser ratio to capsule-forming and drying conditions. The optimised process ensures stable appearance and high repeatability between production batches.
Capsule-forming machine and automatic control panel (Vietnam Medicinal Materials Joint Stock Company)
On this basis, soft capsules containing collagen and Sachi seed oil rich in omega-3,6,9 were produced with stable parameters, meeting the in-house standard TCCS 22:2024/VIETMEC. The product meets requirements on sensory characteristics, physical properties and disintegration; microbiological and heavy-metal indicators comply with TCCS 22:2024/VIETMEC and QCVN 8-1:2025/BYT. The collagen and omega-3,6,9 content in each capsule exceeds 200 mg.
Soft capsules containing collagen and Sachi seed oil from a production batch
When science reaches everyday life
The team placed particular emphasis on evaluating stability and safety in accordance with guidelines in the Vietnam Pharmacopoeia V. After six months of accelerated ageing tests, the capsules showed no oil leakage, cracking or changes in colour or smell; quality indicators remained almost unchanged, allowing the product’s shelf life to be projected at up to 36 months. No significant chemical reactions occurred between the active ingredients and the capsule shell; the product showed antioxidant activity and no cytotoxicity in normal cell lines.
Soft capsules combining collagen peptides and Sachi seed oil provide benefits for skin care and elasticity, while supporting cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory effects and immune enhancement from omega-3,6,9. Integrating these two groups of active substances in one dosage form enhances convenience and creates a competitive advantage over single-ingredient products.
Capsules produced in the third experimental batch
According to Associate Professor, Dr Nguyen Thuy Chinh, the group’s goal is not only to create a new product but also to develop a sustainable approach to utilising domestic resources, adding value to the fisheries sector and opening a stable outlet for Sachi cultivation while reducing dependence on imported raw materials. The project has also generated scientific publications, one patented invention and contributions to training young researchers.
The product is currently being prepared by the enterprise for regulatory declaration under food safety regulations and is ready to enter the market. The project’s success demonstrates the value of applied science built on a foundation of rigorous, persistent research and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Translated by Phuong Huyen
Link to Vietnamese version
