Nutrient encapsulation technologies for fortified beverages using SMEDDS, SED, and microencapsulation
Advanced nutrient encapsulation technologies enhance the stability, bioavailability, and sensory quality of fortified beverages. Utilizing lipid-based delivery systems, spray drying, and multilayer emulsions, this approach offers improved nutrient delivery for products like omega-3 and iron fortified drinks.
Overview
Our innovative nutrient encapsulation technologies aim to revolutionize the fortification of beverages by enhancing stability, bioavailability, and sensory qualities. By integrating Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDS), Self-Emulsifying Delivery Systems (SEDS), and spray drying encapsulation, we offer a robust solution for co-delivering omega-3 fatty acids and hydrophilic nutrients such as iron. This approach can significantly improve the nutritional content of beverages, ensuring that nutrients are delivered at optimal bioavailability levels without affecting taste or mouthfeel.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- SMEDDS and SEDS: Use of lecithin, hydrophilic cosurfactants, and carrier oils to form oil-swollen micelles upon dilution, enhancing the delivery of hydrophobic nutrients.
- Spray Drying Encapsulation: Converts liquid solutions of hydrophilic nutrients into dry powders (2-50 μm), suitable for iron, zinc, and water-soluble vitamins.
- Multilayer Emulsions: Formulated for vitamin A and omega-3s, providing stable delivery in oil-in-water emulsions.
- Liposomal Delivery Systems: Enhance the encapsulation and protection of sensitive nutrients.
- Applicable for fortifying beverages like black tea, with potential nutrient loadings ranging from 10-50% of the RDA.
Technology readiness level
The technologies have reached TRL6, validated through stability testing in fortified soft drinks and iron-fortified tea. Ongoing development aims to integrate these systems for broader nutrient applications, advancing towards commercial deployment.
About University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is a comprehensive public research university with three campuses in the Toronto region and a globally scaled research enterprise. Its downtown footprint is embedded within a major academic health network and an adjacent innovation district, enabling co-located labs, clinical trials, and rapid testing with end users. Companies connect through co-op and long-duration internships, sponsored research, and access to shared core facilities and prototyping resources. Research is supported by Canada’s Tri‑Agency (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial programs and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup support through a coordinated entrepreneurship network.
delivered to your inbox.