Microencapsulated probiotic formulations using emulsion techniques
This innovative solution involves developing microencapsulated probiotic formulations using emulsion techniques to improve particle size control, ensuring efficient delivery and stability in food products without affecting texture or mouthfeel.
Overview
This technology focuses on advancing probiotic delivery through the development of microencapsulated formulations using emulsion techniques. The primary goal is to achieve microcapsules with smaller, well-controlled particle sizes that can seamlessly integrate into food products. This ensures therapeutic levels of live bacteria are delivered effectively without compromising the texture or mouthfeel of the product.
Technical specifications
- Emulsion Techniques: Utilizing advanced emulsion methods to produce microcapsules with improved particle size control.
- Particle Size: Aim to create microcapsules significantly smaller than the previous 1000 micrometer capsules.
- Protection and Stability: Provides protection against acidic stomach environments, ensuring live bacteria reach the GI tract.
- Storage Stability: Demonstrates good storage stability in dry states and when mixed in fruit juices.
- Evaluation Criteria:
- Physicochemical properties: particle size distribution, morphology, mechanical properties.
- Viability and stability of live bacteria in microcapsules.
- Release efficiency under gastrointestinal conditions.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating it is in the early stages of experimental proof of concept with ongoing validation to refine encapsulation processes and evaluate stability and efficacy.
About Physicochemical, ex vivo and invertebrate tests and analysis centre (PEVITAC)
The Physicochemical, Ex Vivo and Invertebrate Tests and Analysis Centre (PEVITAC) is a specialized research and testing facility based at the University of Reading, founded by Professor Vitaliy Khutoryanskiy and Dr. Roman Moiseev. The centre provides contract research services designed to evaluate the mucoadhesive, bioadhesive, toxicological, physicochemical, and mechanical properties of various materials, including pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, cosmetics, agrochemicals, and pollutants. PEVITAC distinguishes itself by utilizing unique expertise and specialized equipment, including ex vivo mammalian tissue models and live invertebrate models such as planaria, daphnia, and wax moth larvae. These biological approaches offer practical and ethically aligned alternatives to traditional testing methods for assessing biological activity, toxicity, and particle penetration.
These services are critical for industrial and academic partners seeking to understand the safety, efficacy, and performance of their formulations and drug delivery systems. By offering consultancy, literature reviews, and precise laboratory characterization—covering areas like spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and texture morphology—PEVITAC supports clients in the development of new therapies and products. The centre has worked with various industrial entities, providing high-quality data and professional insights that assist in the research and development pipeline. Their commitment to the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) in toxicology testing serves as a key differentiator, helping partners navigate complex characterization challenges while contributing to sustainable and innovative scientific progress.
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