Scalable microencapsulation technologies for nutrient bioavailability enhancement
UC Davis has developed scalable microencapsulation technologies using patented processes to enhance nutrient delivery. The CLAM and CoCo processes improve protection and targeted release of micronutrients and fat-soluble vitamins, respectively, in the digestive system.
Overview
The University of California, Davis offers innovative microencapsulation technologies designed to enhance the bioavailability of nutrients. Our patented processes, namely the Crosslinked Alginate Microencapsulation (CLAM) and Complex Coacervation (CoCo) by spray drying, address previous scaling challenges. The CLAM process is optimized for delivering micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, while the CoCo process is tailored for encapsulating fat-soluble vitamins. These technologies ensure that nutrients are protected in acidic gastric environments and effectively released in the intestinal tract, improving nutrient absorption.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- CLAM Process: Utilizes calcium-alginate microparticles created through spray drying. This method employs calcium or other multivalent cations (e.g., iron, zinc, magnesium) as crosslinkers to form water-insoluble particles.
- CoCo Process: Focuses on encapsulating oil emulsions with protein-alginate complex coacervates, which are also formed via spray drying. This is particularly effective for lipophilic vitamins.
- Versatility: Capable of combining both processes to enhance nutrient delivery by encapsulating emulsions in alginate-micronutrient crosslinked matrices.
Applications:
- Nutritional supplements and fortified foods
- Pharmaceuticals
- Functional foods
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating that its proof-of-concept has been established in a laboratory setting. Future validation includes in vitro release tests and potential collaboration for further testing to optimize bioavailability in practical applications.
About University of California, Davis
UC Davis is a comprehensive public research university in Northern California, combining a land-grant heritage with an integrated academic health system and a veterinary teaching hospital. Industry engages through co-located clinical and translational facilities in Sacramento, a campus-adjacent research park, pilot-scale food and bioprocessing facilities, and a statewide extension network for field-to-market deployment. Proximity to the Bay Area and California's Central Valley enables rapid collaboration with startups and established enterprises, while corporate relations staff streamline access to faculty, talent, and core labs. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, USDA, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office and venture support programs provide IP management, licensing, and startup formation pathways for industry partnerships.
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