CoQ10 & PQQ for Mitochondrial Energy: CMO Insights for Sports Formulation
Athletic performance depends not only on muscle strength and oxygen delivery but also on cellular energy efficiency. This is where mitochondrial support nutrients like Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) enter the picture — boosting ATP production, improving oxidative resilience, and synergizing with nitrate-based vasodilation strategies.
At BF-EssE, we work with brands to create stable, bioavailable CoQ10 and PQQ blends that fit into EU-compliant sports formulations, whether standalone or part of a performance stack.
At BF-EssE, we work with brands to create stable, bioavailable CoQ10 and PQQ blends that fit into EU-compliant sports formulations, whether standalone or part of a performance stack.
Stability & Microencapsulation Challenges Both CoQ10 and PQQ are sensitive to light, oxygen, and moisture, with CoQ10 also prone to crystallization in dry blends.
At BF-EssE, we employ microencapsulation and lipid carriers to protect these actives:
- Microencapsulation improves shelf life and enables uniform dispersion in powders.
- Lipid carriers (e.g., MCT oil powders) enhance bioavailability, especially for CoQ10’s fat-soluble nature.
- Antioxidant pairing (e.g., vitamin E, ascorbyl palmitate) further reduces oxidative degradation.
How CoQ10 & PQQ Work in Athletic Performance
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Ubiquinone / UbiquinolIntegral to the mitochondrial electron transport chain, where it shuttles electrons for ATP synthesis. Also acts as a lipid-soluble antioxidant, protecting cell membranes from oxidative stress caused by intense trainin -
Pyrroloquinoline QuinoneSupports mitochondrial biogenesis (creation of new mitochondria) and enhances the efficiency of existing ones. Known for its redox cycling ability, meaning it can be reused multiple times as an antioxidant before degradation. -
Synergy in FormulationCoQ10 improves ATP output per mitochondrion, while PQQ helps the body produce more mitochondria — together they enhance both capacity and efficiency of cellular energy systems. This can improve recovery times, delay fatigue, and support overall training volume.
Formulation & Format Possibilities
Capsules — CoQ10 & PQQ together or with nitrates, citrulline, or beetroot extract
Sachets — flavored blends with microencapsulated actives for endurance or recovery positioning
Stack Integration — combine with nitrate-based NO boosters for dual benefits in oxygen delivery and cellular energy production
Sachets — flavored blends with microencapsulated actives for endurance or recovery positioning
Stack Integration — combine with nitrate-based NO boosters for dual benefits in oxygen delivery and cellular energy production
Regulatory & Labeling in the EU
CoQ10 is classified as a food supplement ingredient in the EU; no authorized health claims, but permitted under functional positioning for "energy metabolism" when paired with nutrients like vitamin B2 ("contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism").
PQQ is a Novel Food in the EU, authorized under specific purity and dosage conditions (EFSA limit: typically up to 20 mg/day).
Any energy performance claims must rely on approved nutrient claims or carefully structured marketing language.
PQQ is a Novel Food in the EU, authorized under specific purity and dosage conditions (EFSA limit: typically up to 20 mg/day).
Any energy performance claims must rely on approved nutrient claims or carefully structured marketing language.
Why BF-EssE is Your Partner for Mitochondrial Energy Formulations
ISO-certified cleanroom manufacturing
Expertise in microencapsulation and lipid-based delivery
Full EU compliance checks for Novel Food status and label language
Ability to integrate mitochondrial actives with vasodilators, antioxidants, and adaptogens for premium endurance stacks
Expertise in microencapsulation and lipid-based delivery
Full EU compliance checks for Novel Food status and label language
Ability to integrate mitochondrial actives with vasodilators, antioxidants, and adaptogens for premium endurance stacks
FAQ – CoQ10 & PQQ in Sports Supplements
Yes — they complement each other mechanistically, and microencapsulation ensures stability when blended.
Yes, as an authorized Novel Food, but dosage and purity must follow EFSA-approved specifications.
Ubiquinol is more bioavailable than ubiquinone, but microencapsulation can make both forms highly effective.
No — benefits are more pronounced after consistent intake over weeks, as mitochondrial adaptations take time.
Yes — mitochondrial efficiency is valuable for active lifestyles, seniors, and even cognitive performance.