The present invention relates to capsules for encapsulating functional agents, such as flavors, fragrances, pharmaceuticals, vitamins, etc. The capsules are suitable for the encapsulation of hydrophobic as well as hydrophilic substances. The capsules include a micro-organism, a matrix component and the encapsulatable material, wherein the latter comprises the functional agent or agents. The invention further relates to a process for manufacturing the capsules and to food products containing the capsules.