Vitamin K2 (MK-7)

Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) is a long-chain form of Vitamin K2, distinct from the plant-derived Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone). It is produced industrially through bacterial fermentation, most commonly from natto (fermented soybeans). MK-7 has a longer half-life in circulation than other K2 forms (MK-4), making it the preferred form for once-daily supplementation in gummy formats.

Brands use MK-7 primarily for bone health and heart health positioning, often in combination with Vitamin D3. The ingredient is tasteless at supplemental doses, heat-stable, and soluble in gummy matrices — making it a straightforward addition to gummy formulations. Its microdose range (45–180 µg) means it occupies negligible payload space, allowing co-formulation with other actives.

Origin and history

Vitamin K was discovered in 1929 by Danish scientist Henrik Dam, who identified it as a factor essential for blood clotting. The "K" derives from the German "Koagulation." Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) was later distinguished from K1, with MK-7 identified as the predominant form in natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food. Epidemiological studies in Japan linked natto consumption to higher bone density, sparking commercial interest in MK-7 supplementation.

Industrial production of MK-7 uses controlled bacterial fermentation (Bacillus subtilis natto), followed by extraction and purification. The process yields a stable, bioidentical form of the vitamin. Synthetic routes also exist but are less common for gummy-grade material. The ingredient is supplied as an oil suspension or powder, both compatible with gummy manufacturing.

Scientific overview

Menaquinone-7 acts as a cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, which activates vitamin K-dependent proteins. The two most clinically relevant are osteocalcin (for bone mineralisation) and matrix Gla protein (MGP, for inhibition of vascular calcification). By activating these proteins, MK-7 supports calcium utilisation — directing calcium to bones and away from soft tissues. This mechanism underpins both the bone health and heart health positioning.

MK-7 has significantly better bioavailability and a longer half-life (approximately 72 hours) compared to MK-4 (half-life of a few hours). This allows for once-daily dosing with sustained activation of vitamin K-dependent proteins. Absorption is enhanced when taken with dietary fat, though in gummy formats the lipid matrix of the gummy itself provides sufficient absorption. The dose range of 45–180 µg is well below any known toxicity threshold; no tolerable upper intake level has been established for Vitamin K.

From a manufacturing perspective, MK-7 is heat-stable and soluble in the lipid phase of gummy formulations. It does not require encapsulation or taste masking. The main formulation watchpoint is ensuring uniform dispersion at microdose levels — typically achieved by pre-diluting the active in oil before addition to the gummy mass. Cost per mg is moderate, but because the dose is so low, the per-serving ingredient cost is negligible.

Menaquinone-7 occupies a strong position in the bone health and heart health categories, often as part of a Vitamin D3 + K2 combination. This pairing is one of the most commercially established supplement synergies in both EU and US markets. Brands targeting healthy ageing, post-menopausal women, and active lifestyle consumers frequently lead with MK-7. The ingredient also supports a "calcium utilisation" narrative that differentiates from simple calcium supplementation.

Formulation-wise, MK-7 is nearly ideal for gummies. It is tasteless, heat-stable, and requires no masking. The microdose means it can be added to any gummy base without affecting texture, sweetness, or payload capacity. It pairs naturally with Vitamin D3, which is also fat-soluble and heat-stable. The main manufacturing consideration is ensuring homogeneous distribution at low inclusion rates — DAT uses pre-dispersion techniques to guarantee uniformity per gummy.

Pack copy must use the authorised EFSA wording verbatim for EU markets: "Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones" and "Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting." The D3 synergy claim is not an authorised health claim — brands should rely on the D3 claim ("Vitamin D contributes to normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus") and position the K2 + D3 combination as a complementary pairing. DAT reviews all claim wording per project to ensure compliance with EU Reg. 432/2012 and national enforcement guidance.