Encapsulation technologies for probiotics in low ph beverages
Innovative encapsulation techniques using emulsions to enhance the stability and viability of probiotics in acidic beverages, ensuring long-term effectiveness and consumer appeal.
Overview
The proposed research focuses on developing advanced encapsulation technologies to enhance the stability and viability of probiotics in low pH beverages. This innovation addresses the challenge of maintaining probiotic effectiveness in acidic environments, a common issue in functional beverages. By leveraging emulsions with acid-resistant probiotic strains, the study aims to optimize formulations that ensure extended stability and consumer safety.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Emulsions formulated with acid-resistant probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
- Adjusted pH levels to simulate low pH beverage environments while maintaining probiotic viability.
- Weekly evaluations over a 7-month period assessing physical, microbiological, and chemical stability, including droplet size and oxidative stability.
- Study of release kinetics under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and sensory evaluations for consumer acceptance.
- Use of diverse oil phases, emulsifiers, antioxidants, and stabilizers to enhance formulation stability.
Technology readiness level
The project is currently at Technology Readiness Level 2, focusing on formulating and testing encapsulations in laboratory settings with plans for further validation.
About Universiti Putra Malaysia
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is a comprehensive public research university in Serdang, Greater Kuala Lumpur, with a campus that integrates classroom, laboratory, and field-testing environments. Companies engage through co-located labs, on-campus testbeds, and university-run farms that enable prototyping and trials close to production supply chains. Health system integration and proximity to Putrajaya’s ministries and the Cyberjaya tech corridor facilitate collaboration and timely access to partners. Research is supported by competitive funding from Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup support, connecting companies with faculty expertise and specialized facilities.
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