Encapsulation and pickering emulsions for nutrient delivery in beverages
A technology for stabilizing and delivering nutrients in beverages using encapsulation in a protein matrix and particle-stabilized (Pickering) emulsions. The approach protects nutrients such as minerals and omega-3 fatty acids during shelf life and enables controlled release during digestion, aiming to improve beverage nutritional profiles without compromising taste or texture.
Overview
A solution for stabilizing and delivering nutrients in beverages using encapsulation within a protein matrix and Pickering emulsions. Nutrients such as minerals and omega-3 fatty acids are protected from degradation during shelf life and remain stable and inert until digestion. The technology is intended to enhance the nutritional profile of beverages while preserving taste and texture.
Technical specifications
Encapsulation Techniques:
- Protein Matrix: Maintains nutrients in a stable glassy state during shelf life.
- Pickering Emulsions: Particle-stabilized emulsions that prevent nutrient degradation in beverages.
- Meso-Porous Silica: Encapsulation within silica pores to support controlled release upon digestion.
Key Benefits:
- Nutrient protection and stability in beverages
- Inert during shelf life, active upon ingestion
- Scalable and food-approved processes
Applications:
- Suitable for beverage nutrient fortification
- Potential to enhance beverages such as juices, smoothies, and fortified drinks
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 4, validated in a laboratory setting for nutrient encapsulation and stability in beverages. Next steps include further validation and optimization of nutrient selection and encapsulation techniques, with future evaluations focused on digestion release, shelf-life analysis, and sensory perception.
About RISE Research Institutes of Sweden
RISE Research Institutes of Sweden is a state‑owned, national applied research organization with a broad, mission‑driven portfolio and a distributed presence across Sweden’s industrial regions. Its co‑located laboratories, accredited measurement services, and open testbeds are integrated with pilot‑scale lines and demonstration environments, enabling companies to de‑risk development from early prototyping through pre‑commercial validation. RISE convenes neutral, multi‑party consortia and embeds researchers alongside product teams, offering contract research, standards and certification support, and access to specialized infrastructure close to customers and suppliers. Work is backed by competitive national and EU funding and by industry. IP and business services streamline collaboration.
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