Analytical methods for encapsulation

Abstract

Encapsulation of food active compounds has been widely studied with huge potential for application in the food sector. In fact, many food related encapsulates are already used as substitutes for conventional additives in food products. Encapsulated food additives include aroma compounds, colorants, vegetable oils, probiotics, mineral compounds, etc. Introduction of new types of additives i.e. in the encapsulated forms creates completely new challenges for production management and quality control. Besides concerns regarding food quality and influence on consumers, encapsulated products may also influence the environment in previously unknown relations. In order to properly distinguish physico-chemical properties and biological activity of encapsulates, it is necessary to introduce new analytical methods for characterization of encapsulated food products. One of the most important analyses are those related to particle size, surface properties and the presence of free active compounds. For release properties of encapsulates, methods based on in vitro digestion are suitable, especially in the case of encapsulated probiotics. Methods that are based on thermal analyses are suitable for establishing thermal stability of encapsulated active ingredients. Fast and non- invasive spectroscopic methods could be used for routine encapsulates quality control but also may be suitable for study of interactions between food and encapsulated compounds. Finally, encapsulates influence on the environment could be the main obstacle in further development of encapsulated food products. Hence, appropriate monitoring of encapsulates fate under environmental conditions is crucial for their acceptance by the food sector.