Encapsulation of spray dried β-carotene emulsion by fluidized bed coating technology

beta-carotene is a promising natural colorant because its potential health benefits; however, its use is sometimes limited because of its susceptibility to oxidation and thermal degradation. An emulsion containing 0.06 g beta-carotene/100 g emulsion was spray dried and fluidized bed coating was used to encapsulate the beta-carotene by spraying a solution with 10 g hydroxypropyl cellulose/100 g of coating solution. Temperature and feed rate of coating solution were varied to evaluate beta-carotene and color stability during storage at different temperatures. Coated powders were analyzed for particle size, moisture content, water activity, melting point and color. Coating temperature had an effect on beta-carotene content and powder color, but there was no clear trend on the effect of coating solution feed rate. Decreasing beta-carotene concentration was correlated with decreasing chroma and total difference color values in coated powders during storage. Coated powders showed color stability when applied to yogurt for up to 4 weeks of storage since low values of total difference color were observed. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.