Electrostatic spray drying for controlled gelation of psyllium fiber drinks
This technology utilizes electrostatic spray drying (ESD) to create psyllium composite microparticles that delay hydration and suppress the initial viscosity burst in water, optimizing drinkability of psyllium fiber beverages.
Overview
Electrostatic spray drying (ESD) is utilized to engineer psyllium into composite microparticles that enhance the drinkability of fiber drinks by delaying hydration. This method co-processes psyllium with food-grade wall materials to form particles with a tailored surface architecture, slowing water penetration for the first 5-10 minutes after mixing. This approach maintains psyllium's physiological benefits while ensuring a smoother initial drinkability experience, ideal for single-serve drink mixes and instant nutrition formats.
Technical specifications
- Process: Co-processing psyllium with food-grade wall materials during electrostatic spray drying
- Features:
- Formation of dense, shell-like, low-porosity composites
- Controlled initial hydration and delayed viscosity increase
- Compatible with GMP-oriented, scalable powder manufacturing
- Applications: Single-serve drink mixes, instant nutrition formats
- Characterization Methods: SEM, particle size analysis, moisture sorption, water uptake, rheology
Technology readiness level
The technology is at a TRL 3, indicating it has been demonstrated analytically and experimentally in a laboratory setting. The next steps involve scaling up and validating the process for pilot-scale production and commercial application.
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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