The start-up company, formed in 2009 from the University of Queensland, offers a new method of encapsulating active ingredients that allows for small enough particles to remain undetectable by consumers while being cost-effective for manufacturers. Progel microgels are based on the calcium alginate gel system, which protects against denaturation and deactivation by gastric enzymes and the low pH environment. The technology is scalable, easy to use, and represents a step up in terms of simplicity and small particle size compared to established methods. Progel microgels are perfect for delivering bioactives, providing potential enhanced health benefits with actives released where absorption is greatest. The company's initial product targets include functional foods such as probiotic drinks or yoghurts, or omega-3 fatty acid enhanced foods, with multi-billion dollar markets growing at above 10% per year. Progel has access to top-class research facilities and highly trained technical staff with extensive experiences in probiotics research, food R&D, and project management.