High-pressure homogenization encapsulation technology for beverage ingredients using micro/nanoemulsion platforms

Overview

A novel encapsulation technology for beverage ingredients using high-pressure homogenization is being developed to create micro/nanoemulsions that protect and enhance functional ingredients. The platform targets improved stability, solubility, taste, and overall performance in low-pH beverage systems and throughout shelf life. The technology is intended to serve as a versatile platform for encapsulating a wide range of beverage ingredients, including botanicals, natural carotenoids, and vitamins.

This approach addresses common challenges in functional beverages such as ingredient degradation, poor solubility, and off-flavors. An end-to-end development pathway is used, spanning ingredient identification and recipe formulation through bench-top process design and scale-up.

Technical specifications

Encapsulation process:

• High-pressure homogenization using Microfluidics M110P and M7125 models (or equivalent equipment) to produce micro/nanoemulsions
• Compatible with water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients, including botanicals, natural carotenoids, and vitamins
• Designed to function as a platform technology applicable across diverse ingredient types

Quality monitoring and characterization:

• Particle size distribution and Zeta potential analysis to assess encapsulation quality
• In-house and partner-based physicochemical, structural, functional, flavour, sensory, rheological, and microscopy evaluations
• Expertise in evaluating micro and nanoemulsions, ingredient matrices, and ingredient interactions within beverage systems

Development workflow:

• Concept-stage development covering ingredient identification, recipe formulation, encapsulation process design, and scale-up planning
• Bench-top encapsulation of flavour, colour, and functional ingredients into nanoemulsions
• Integration into beverage systems followed by scale-up and dilution into final product formulations

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at the development and validation stage. Development activities include identifying suitable ingredient and encapsulant sources, formulating test recipes, and designing bench-top encapsulation processes. Future validation efforts include scaling up nano-ingredient emulsions and integrating them into beverage systems to demonstrate the platform's versatility across multiple ingredient types. End-to-end process integration, supported by partnerships with Canadian universities, analytical labs, and federal/provincial research organizations, supports ongoing refinement and commercial feasibility assessment.