Protein-based microencapsulation for stable creatine in foods and beverages
A novel protein-based microencapsulation technique stabilizes creatine in food and beverage applications by preventing degradation during processing and storage. This scalable solution enhances creatine's efficacy and compatibility in various food matrices.
Overview
This innovative solution employs protein-based microencapsulation to stabilize creatine, a popular supplement, in food and beverage applications. By preventing the degradation of creatine into creatinine during thermal processing and storage, this technique ensures the preservation of creatine's efficacy and minimizes the formation of undesirable compounds. The encapsulation utilizes food-grade proteins and scalable production methods to create a stable, dispersible ingredient suitable for industrial fortification in beverages, gels, dairy, and structured foods.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes scalable spray-drying or mild coacervation techniques to encapsulate creatine.
- Forms a protective protein matrix that limits thermal and moisture-driven conversion of creatine to creatinine.
- Compatible with various food matrices, maintaining dispersibility and functional performance.
- Demonstrated scalability and integration into standard food manufacturing lines, reducing commercialization risks.
- Proven expertise in microencapsulation of labile bioactives, ensuring robustness under real processing conditions.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 6, indicating that it has been validated in relevant environments and is ready for pilot-scale production. Future plans include optimization and industrial scale-up to ensure seamless transfer to mass production.
About NUCAPS Nanotechnology
NUCAPS Nanotechnology is a Spanish biotechnology company that specializes in a proprietary protein-based microencapsulation technology. Founded in 2017, the company designs and produces functional ingredients by encapsulating bioactives and probiotics within microscopic, food-grade protein matrices. This technology acts as a biovector, protecting sensitive ingredients from degradation while enabling controlled release, targeted delivery, and significantly enhanced bioavailability—up to 30 times higher than conventional methods. By using natural proteins such as casein, zein, or soy, the company offers a sustainable, clean-label solution that is free from synthetic polymers, fats, or additives, and is industrially scalable for various production needs.
The company operates as a B2B partner for manufacturers across the food, beverage, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Its solutions address critical industry challenges, such as improving the stability and shelf life of ingredients, masking unpleasant odors and flavors, and reducing production costs. By facilitating the oral delivery of nutrients and microorganisms, NUCAPS aims to create a tangible impact on human health. With a strong focus on R&D, the company has secured multiple international patents and is recognized for its innovation in functional ingredients, supporting global nutritional objectives through science-driven, scalable technology.
delivered to your inbox.