Enhanced probiotic delivery system using cellulose nanocrystals and shellac
A novel probiotic delivery system utilizing cellulose nanocrystals and shellac for effective encapsulation and protection in acidic conditions, enabling triggered release in the intestinal environment. Ideal for functional foods requiring enhanced probiotic delivery.
Overview
This innovative probiotic delivery system leverages sustainable, biocompatible materials to enhance the survivability of probiotics in functional foods. By using modified cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) combined with ferulic acid (FA) and shellac (SH), this technology effectively encapsulates probiotics, ensuring their protection in acidic environments and enabling a triggered release in the alkaline conditions of the intestinal tract.
Technical specifications
- Materials Used: Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) modified with ferulic acid and shellac for effective probiotic encapsulation.
- Functionality: FA-coated CNCs act as antioxidants and pH-responsive emulsifiers, creating a smart Pickering emulsion for probiotics. CNC-shellac microcapsules form long-lasting enteric coatings, maintaining probiotic viability during gastric transit.
- Release Mechanism: Probiotics are protected in low pH conditions and released at a pH of 7-8, with customizable release conditions.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 4, having been validated in laboratory settings, and is ready for further development and testing in collaboration with industry partners.
About University of Waterloo
University of Waterloo is a public research university in Ontario, Canada, known for an entrepreneurial, STEM‑driven culture. A globally recognized co‑op program places students with employers year‑round, creating direct talent pipelines and de‑risked pathways into sponsored research and contract development. An adjacent research and technology park hosts corporate R&D alongside faculty labs, and the campus sits within the Toronto–Waterloo innovation corridor for ready access to partners, investors, and scale‑up resources. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from Canada’s Tri‑Council agencies (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and international programs. A creator‑owned IP policy and a dedicated tech transfer office enable flexible agreements, licensing, and spinouts.
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