Development of novel flavored Eudragit® E films for feline minitablet coatings

Abstract

In this study, novel flavored taste masking film coating formulations were developed specifically for felines. Polymethacrylate copolymer (Eudragit® E) was used as an aqueous taste masking film former in different combinations with meat precursors and flavors selected on the basis of the feline carnivorous nature. Special attention was paid to the effects of flavors on the pH and colloidal characteristics of the aqueous film coating dispersions, and to the thermal behavior, mechanical strength and moisture barrier properties of the final polymeric films. All flavored Eudragit® E aqueous dispersions remained within the preferred dynamic viscosity limits of 3–12 mPa × s. The addition of thiamine hydrochloride, however, significantly increased the dynamic viscosity and decreased the pH of flavored dispersion compared to that obtained with the non-flavored reference dispersion. No significant differences in either water vapor transmission rate or thermal behavior were found between the non-flavored and the corresponding flavored free films. The inclusion of flavors affected the tensile strength of films and significantly reduced the film elongation at break, especially when high concentrations of thiamine hydrochloride were used. In conclusion, the influence of flavor on the final film properties needs to be taken into account when formulating flavored taste masking Eudragit® E films.