Midlothian-based Select Release has developed microparticles that encapsulate vitamins and nutrients and then control-release them in the body. "It's like an M&M with a hard outer shell and a soft interior," explains 47-year-old CEO Bob Garrison. "Remember the old 'It melts in your mouth, not in your hand' slogan? Well, we can tell it where to melt."

The first commercial application of the technology is an agreement with Manhattan-based Phlo Corp., which is planning to use the particles in brewed teas and other beverages. Select Release's technology works in beverages because "the particles are so small that they don't refract light," Garrison explains. "A clear beverage stays clear and there's no taste added."

In addition to vitamins, the microparticles also could encapsulate antioxidants, iron and other substances, providing health benefits for infants, the elderly or anyone whose body cannot cope with strong nutrient doses in one hit.

"Our business plan is to go market by market," Garrison says. "We're finalizing our license in the pharmaceuticals area. Pesticides will be another field of use; food will be a functional use. ... Marine paints is something we might get into."

"The more complicated the stuff is the better," Garrison says. "Our matrix lends itself to supporting complicated molecules."

Garrison expects the company to grow from four employees to 10 by the spring of 2000 as its licensing agreement with Phlo comes to fruition. And while sales currently are in the six-figure range, Garrison hopes Select Release's next target segments — foods and pesticides — will produce revenues of $5 million within two years.

"The market is in the billions," he predicts,"even the beverages alone."

— MA