Biopolymer encapsulation technology for enhancing probiotic viability
This technology enhances probiotic viability by using biopolymer matrices for encapsulation, protecting them from environmental stressors and ensuring controlled release. It is ideal for functional foods and dietary supplements, aligning with demand for natural, sustainable solutions.
Overview
This innovative technology utilizes biopolymer matrices to encapsulate probiotics, significantly enhancing their viability and efficacy. By employing materials like alginate, chitosan, casein, and carrageenan, the solution protects probiotics from harsh environmental conditions such as heat, acidity, and oxygen. The encapsulation process, through ionic gelation, forms micro-sized capsules that ensure controlled release and stability. This approach not only improves survival rates during storage and gastrointestinal transit but also aligns with the increasing consumer demand for natural and sustainable products, making it particularly suited for application in functional foods and dietary supplements.
Technical specifications
- Biopolymer materials: Utilizes alginate, chitosan, casein, and carrageenan for encapsulation
- Encapsulation method: Ionic gelation creates micro-sized capsules for controlled release
- Protection: Shields probiotics from environmental stressors like heat, acidity, and oxygen
- Biodegradability: Materials used are biodegradable and safe for consumption
- Application areas: Functional foods and dietary supplements
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4, where it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Future validation steps include optimizing formulation and encapsulation parameters, evaluating encapsulation methods, process optimization, and conducting stability and sensory evaluations to ensure commercial viability.
About Makabi Agritech
Makabi Agritech is a Croatian agritech company that has developed a proprietary 3-in-1 encapsulation technology for sustainable agricultural production. Utilizing green chemistry, the company creates biodegradable, bio-based microcapsules that combine plant protection, nutrient delivery, and the controlled release of bioactive components. This innovation is designed to replace traditional synthetic agrochemicals, with the goal of reducing environmental pollution, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and enhancing the biopotential and nutritional quality of food crops. The technology works by introducing microcapsules into the root zone or applying them to plant parts, where they dissolve to provide essential nutrients and protection precisely when needed. Founded in 2019 following research at the University of Zagreb, the company focuses on advancing sustainable farming practices through science-based innovations.
This technology is significant for the agricultural sector as it offers a scalable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers and pesticides, potentially reducing agrochemical usage by up to 30 percent. By improving soil health and promoting the production of functional, safer food for human consumption, Makabi Agritech addresses critical global sustainability goals, including zero hunger and responsible consumption. The company actively engages in research and development collaborations, participates in international innovation challenges, and has received recognition and funding for its contributions to sustainable chemistry. Its solutions have been tested on various crops, including strawberries, tomatoes, and tobacco, in both field and greenhouse environments.
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