Tailoring starch-lipid complexes for optimized flaxseed oil emulsion stability, antioxidation, and digestion kinetics

Abstract

Whereas starch-lipid complex emulsifiers are anticipated to possess both an outstanding amphiphilicity and slowly-digesting characteristics, yet a more sustainable and cost-effective approach remains to be explored. Herein, we systematically prepared starch-lauric acid complexes (SLACs) through a solid encapsulation method under varying reaction temperatures (50–90 °C) and times (0.25–60 h). Complexing index analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction analysis revealed an enhanced degree of complexation in SLACs with prolonged reaction time, evidenced by the inward migration of free lauric acid, as further confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In vitro digestibility, contact angle, and interfacial tension measurements demonstrated that SLACs exhibited high levels of slowly digestible starch, a low digestion rate, and excellent amphiphilicity, which was particularly notable in SLACs produced at 80 °C for 6 h. Emulsions stabilized by SLACs showed a smaller droplet size, a higher oil loading rate, an increased yield stress, and an improved storage stability compared to V-type starch. Oxidation experiments indicated that SLACs enhanced the oxidative stability of flaxseed oil, with elevated initial oxidation temperatures and reduced levels of oxidative products. In a simulated gastrointestinal digestion model, SLACs-stabilized structured emulsions exhibited sustained release and lower final contents of fatty acids, suggesting superior resistance to bile acids and digestive enzymes compared to PG2000, a chemically modified food starch (i.e. OSA-starch) refined from waxy maize. Our findings provide an effective strategy for enhancing lipid antioxidation and regulating intestinal digestion.