Ribus Inc, a specialist in rice-based ingredients for food, beverages, and supplements, has launched Nu-Fill,  a plant-based excipient designed to perform as well as conventional, synthetic fillers like microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), while adhering to clean-label standards and organic requirements.

Following an initial market introduction and early commercial adoption, the company is scaling up production for widespread industry adoption.

“Manufacturers are increasing complexity as they reformulate to meet both regulatory and consumer expectations, without compromising performance,” said Alicia Peirce Kasch, vice president. “Nu-Fill gives brands a viable path away from MCC and other restricted or less desirable fillers, while maintaining the consistency, scalability, and functionality required for modern production.”

Nu-Fill is engineered to replace MCC, as well as lactose- and starch-based fillers, across tablets, capsules, and single-serve stick packs. It supports consistent flow, blend uniformity, and compressibility, enabling efficient production without having to rely on synthetic additives.

Nu-Fill is made from rice hulls, rice bran extract, and agave syrup. It’s non-soluble and suitable for both conventional and certified organic formulations, and can replace other fillers at a starting ratio of 1:1. Its consistent flow and blending properties make it easy for manufacturers to adjust production without altering performance, the company reported.

“Formulators are being asked to do more with fewer tradeoffs, such as improving label transparency while maintaining performance, and cost control,” said Kasch. “Nu-Fill delivers across all three, giving brands a dependable way to simplify formulations without sacrificing efficiency or scalability.”