Electrostatic spray-dried biopolymer particles for food-grade whitening
A novel electrostatic spray drying technology designed to produce biopolymer microparticles as a clean-label alternative to TiO2 for food applications. This method uses food-approved biopolymers to create highly scattering particles that maximize opacity and whiteness in products like beverages and dairy alternatives.
Overview
Electrostatic spray drying (ESD) offers a groundbreaking approach to creating biopolymer microparticles as a food-grade whitening alternative to titanium dioxide (TiO2). This technology utilizes natural ingredients such as cellulose nanofibrils and citrus pectin to form porous, hollow, or core-shell particles with precise control over morphology and size (1–20 μm). The process ensures high opacity and whiteness, catering to clean-label and vegan demands by avoiding synthetic polymers and nanoscale minerals.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes a low-temperature, nitrogen-assisted drying process to preserve ingredient functionality.
- Produces narrow particle-size distributions with high internal porosity.
- Compatible with a variety of natural biopolymers including pea protein and oat β-glucan.
- Enables precise control over particle morphology and internal structure for maximum light scattering.
- Suitable for application in beverages, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and various coatings.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, this technology is undergoing material selection, process optimization, and application testing phases. Initial results demonstrate promising potential for achieving TiO2-equivalent performance, with ongoing development focused on scaling up and regulatory compliance.
About Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)
KU Leuven is a large comprehensive public research university in Leuven, Belgium, anchored by a major academic medical center and a broad multidisciplinary profile. Industry engages through co-located facilities and shared labs, including access to advanced cleanrooms and prototyping via imec’s Leuven campus. Integration with UZ Leuven supports clinical partnerships and data-rich trials, while research and technology parks around the city connect companies with faculty and student talent. Research is backed by competitive European and Belgian funding, including the European Commission and the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). KU Leuven Research & Development manages IP, licensing, and spin-off formation, offering standardized agreements and dedicated partnership managers.
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