Encapsulation of fish oil by an enzymatic gelation process using transglutaminase cross-linked proteins

To improve the storage stability and achieve controlled release, fish oil containing docosahexaenoic acid was encapsulated using double emulsification and subsequent enzymatic gelation method, using microbial transglutaminase cross-linked proteins. Isolated soy protein was selected as a wall material because it showed better emulsion stability and higher reactivity with MTGase than other proteins. Microcapsules prepared by this method showed a high stability against oxygen and a low water solubility, which subsequently resulted in sustained release of fish oil. Results indicate that this microencapsulation process is suitable for preparing protein-based microcapsules containing sensitive ingredients for controlled release and stability improvement.