Electrostatic spray-dried clean-label encapsulated systems for sugar reduction

Technology
Conceptual
University

A novel clean-label platform using electrostatic spray drying to create structured powders from naturally derived ingredients, enabling sugar reduction in baked goods and confectionery while maintaining sweetness and mouthfeel.

Overview

The electrostatic spray-dried clean-label encapsulated systems offer an innovative solution for reducing sugar in baked goods and confectionery without compromising taste or texture. Utilizing inert-gas, low-temperature electrostatic spray drying (ESD), this platform transforms naturally derived ingredients into structured powders. These powders encapsulate high-intensity natural sweeteners, rare sugars, flavor modulators, and fiber/carbohydrate blends, thereby delivering uniform sweetness, masking bitterness, and enhancing mouthfeel at reduced sugar levels. This approach also contributes to bulk, moisture management, and improved processability in products like cakes, biscuits, coatings, and fillings.

Technical specifications
  • Electrostatic Spray Drying (ESD): Utilizes inert-gas and low temperatures to preserve sensitive ingredients.
  • Encapsulation Matrix: Employs food-grade materials such as maltodextrin, starch, inulin, or gum arabic.
  • Powder Characteristics: Fine powders with controlled particle morphology for improved dispersibility and protected actives.
  • Applications: Optimized for use in bakery and confectionery products to maintain sweetness perception and product quality.
  • Scalability: Suitable for industrial production due to the scalable nature of ESD.
Technology readiness level

Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3), the platform is in the early stages of development. Future validation phases will optimize formulations and integrate AI models to predict optimal ingredient combinations, with plans for pilot-scale production and commercial deployment.


About Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

KU Leuven is a large comprehensive public research university in Leuven, Belgium, anchored by a major academic medical center and a broad multidisciplinary profile. Industry engages through co-located facilities and shared labs, including access to advanced cleanrooms and prototyping via imec’s Leuven campus. Integration with UZ Leuven supports clinical partnerships and data-rich trials, while research and technology parks around the city connect companies with faculty and student talent. Research is backed by competitive European and Belgian funding, including the European Commission and the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). KU Leuven Research & Development manages IP, licensing, and spin-off formation, offering standardized agreements and dedicated partnership managers.

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