The demand for functional nutritional products is surging globally, with consumers increasingly seeking clean, science-backed ingredients to enhance energy, cognition, and overall wellness. Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (goBHB), a clinically validated exogenous ketone, is rapidly becoming a key ingredient for brands looking to differentiate their offerings in ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, powder supplements, and gummies.
This comprehensive guide provides essential formulation insights, stability considerations, and practical recommendations for successfully incorporating goBHB into various supplement delivery formats.
Understanding goBHB as an Ingredient
goBHB Overview
- goBHB, a patented form of Beta-Hydroxybutyrate, delivers immediate, sustained cellular energy, cognitive enhancement, metabolic support, and stress reduction.
- Bio-identical to ketones naturally produced by the body, goBHB has excellent bioavailability, making it an ideal ingredient for diverse product formulations.
Key Advantages for Formulators
- Versatility: Effective across diverse product forms, including liquids, powders, and gummies.
- Efficacy and Appeal: Backed by clinical research validating its benefits, which include improved energy, cognitive clarity, metabolic health, and mood stability.
- Consumer Demand: Aligns with market trends toward low-sugar, keto-friendly, and wellness-focused products.

Formulating RTDs with goBHB
Key Considerations:
- Solubility and Stability: goBHB electrolytes are highly soluble, stable in aqueous solutions, making RTDs easy to formulate.
- Flavor Masking and Enhancement:
- Mildly bitter taste; effectively masked with natural citrus, berry, or tropical fruit flavors.
- Consider acidulants (citric acid) or natural sweeteners (stevia, monk fruit) to balance taste profiles.
- Dosage Guidelines:
- Typical dosages range from 2-10 grams per serving, depending on the targeted consumer benefits (energy, cognitive function, metabolic health).
Recommended RTD Applications:
- Energy Drinks: Pair goBHB with caffeine alternatives (theanine, adaptogens) for clean, sustained energy.
- Hydration Beverages: Formulate isotonic solutions with added electrolytes for enhanced cellular hydration and metabolic support.
- Wellness Tonics: Include adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola) alongside goBHB to support stress resilience and mood balance.
Formulating Powders with goBHB
Key Considerations:
- Compatibility and Stability:
- Blends effortlessly with protein powders, MCT oils, and superfood blends.
- Stable under normal storage conditions, excellent shelf life in powdered form.
- Taste and Texture Optimization:
- Sweeteners (stevia, erythritol) and natural flavorings effectively mask bitterness.
- Incorporate thickeners (xanthan gum, acacia fiber) to enhance mouthfeel and product consistency.
- Dosage Guidelines:
- Dosing flexibility, typically ranging from 2-10 grams per serving, aligns with various consumer health objectives.
Recommended Powder Applications:
- Pre-Workout Supplements: Combine goBHB with creatine, citrulline, and beta-alanine for enhanced athletic performance.
- Cognitive Support Supplements: Blend goBHB with nootropics like Alpha-GPC or lion’s mane for mental clarity and cognitive enhancement.
- Meal Replacement Powders: Add protein, fiber, and vitamins alongside goBHB for comprehensive nutritional support.
Formulating Gummies with goBHB
Key Considerations:
- Gelatin or Vegan Base Options:
- Suitable for traditional gelatin or plant-based pectin formulations, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
- Flavor and Texture Innovation:
- Fruity or herbal flavors (raspberry, lemon balm) effectively complement goBHB’s mild bitterness.
- Texture modifiers (tapioca syrup, coconut oil) enhance chewiness and consumer enjoyment.
- Dosage Guidelines:
- Gummies typically feature lower dosages (1-3 grams per gummy), ideal for targeted benefits such as mood stabilization, stress relief, or gentle energy support.
Recommended Gummy Applications:
- Stress Relief Gummies: Incorporate goBHB with adaptogens (ashwagandha, lemon balm) for daily mood balance.
- Sleep Enhancement Gummies: Low-dose goBHB (1.5 g) alongside melatonin or chamomile for improved sleep quality.
- Daily Energy Gummies: Formulate with B vitamins or caffeine alternatives for gentle, sustained energy throughout the day.
Stability and Storage Recommendations
- RTD Beverages: Store in cool, stable temperatures away from direct sunlight.
- Powders: Maintain in airtight, moisture-resistant packaging to prevent caking and enhance shelf life.
- Gummies: Store at controlled temperatures, ideally below 25°C (77°F), to maintain texture and prevent melting.
Ensuring Consumer Appeal and Market Success
- Clearly communicate goBHB’s clinically validated benefits on packaging and marketing materials.
- Prioritize taste, texture, and consumer-friendly labeling to encourage repeat purchases and brand loyalty.
- Consider pairing goBHB with complementary ingredients to address specific consumer health trends and concerns, differentiating your products effectively in the market.
Connect with goBHB Experts
For formulation assistance, product development inquiries, or manufacturing partnerships, contact Marc Lobliner at marc@ketonelabs.com.
Conclusion: Unlocking goBHB’s Potential
Whether your brand targets RTDs, powders, or gummies, goBHB offers unparalleled versatility and proven consumer appeal. By understanding formulation nuances, optimal dosages, and ingredient synergies, you can create innovative, highly effective nutritional products that stand out in today’s competitive market.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.