Investigating the effect of wall material and pressure homogenisation on encapsulation parameters and thermal stability in chia seed oil microcapsules

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the effect of different wall material (WM) matrices followed by homogenisation to encapsulate chia seed oil (CSO) using freeze drying technology. Methods CSO was encapsulated using three ratios (100/0, 50/50, and 100/0) of two WM matrices: MTS/WPC (modified tapioca starch–whey protein concentrate) and MD/WPC (maltodextrin–whey protein concentrate). The evaluation included encapsulation efficiency (EE), oxidative stability, and α-linolenic acid (ALA) retention. Homogenised microcapsules (-H) were then assessed for storage and thermal stability, along with cumulative oil release. Results The MD-WPC-H 50/50 microcapsules had superior EE (97.32%), higher ALA retention (60.2%), storage stability (up to 30 days), higher thermal stability (up to 700 °C), and desirable oil release in simulated condition. Conclusion Selecting suitable WM and homogenisation is key for improving EE, storage, thermal stability, and targeted release. The CSO microcapsule can serve as a functional ingredient to improve the quality of diverse food products.