Abstract:
Comestible products, for example beverage products, are disclosed containing encapsulated probiotic bacteria having resistance to subjection to at least thermal and acidic conditions. Beverage products include at least one aqueous liquid and capsules comprising a gelled mixture of alginate and denatured protein, and probiotic bacteria entrapped within the gelled mixture. The average particle size of the capsules is optionally less than 1000 microns (μm) in diameter, such as less than 500 μm in diameter. Methods are provided for making such encapsulated probiotics by providing a mixture comprising sodium alginate, denatured protein and active probiotic cells, and combining the mixture with a divalent cation to initiate cold gelation of the sodium alginate and denatured protein to form a second mixture. The second mixture is passed through an opening having a diameter of less than 1000 μm to form capsules. The weight ratio of protein to alginate is from 1:1 to 9:1.
Abstract:
Stable, edible delivery systems for water miscible or water soluble materials, and aqueous food products such as beverages incorporating such delivery systems are provided. The disclosed delivery systems may be used to isolate a substance otherwise having an unacceptable taste in the food product or to protect a sensitive material in the food, e.g., an ingredient prone to degradation. Methods for producing the delivery systems and aqueous dispersions are also disclosed.
Abstract:
This disclosure provides aqueous steviol glycoside compositions as well as syrups and beverages comprising these compositions. In certain embodiments, the aqueous steviol glycoside composition comprises water and a sweetening composition, wherein the sweetening composition is solubilized in the water and comprises a stevioside composition and rebaudioside D.
Abstract:
Stable, edible delivery systems for water miscible or water soluble materials, and aqueous food products such as beverages incorporating such delivery systems are provided. The disclosed delivery systems may be used to isolate a substance otherwise having an unacceptable taste in the food product or to protect a sensitive material in the food, e.g., an ingredient prone to degradation. Methods for producing the delivery systems and aqueous dispersions are also disclosed, wherein an acidification agent lowers the pH of the emulsion particles core during and/or after emulsification.