Synergistic Effects of Carrier Composition and Spray-Drying Conditions on the Microencapsulation of Pomegranate Peel Extract
Journal of Food Process Engineering, cilt.49, sa.7, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 49 Sayı: 7
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1111/jfpe.70664
- Dergi Adı: Journal of Food Process Engineering
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Applied Science & Technology Source, Compendex, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, INSPEC, Business Source Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: antioxidant activity, ellagic acid, optimization, pomegranate peel, spray drying
- Akdeniz Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study aimed to optimize the spray-drying conditions and carrier material composition for the microencapsulation of pomegranate peel extract, a phenolic-rich by-product of the fruit juice industry. Maltodextrin (MD) and gum arabic (AG) ratios, along with inlet air temperature, were selected as independent variables and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The results demonstrated that both carrier composition and drying temperature significantly influenced process yield, phenolic retention, and antioxidant activity. The optimal conditions were determined as 36.6% MD, 63.4% AG, and an inlet temperature of 190°C, yielding a powder with 71.20% process yield, 132.80 mg GAE/g total phenolic content, 26.92 mg/g ellagic acid, and 28.23 mg TEAC/g antioxidant activity. The improved retention of bioactive compounds was attributed to the synergistic effect of MD and AG, providing enhanced matrix stability and protection during drying. These findings highlight the importance of carrier–process interactions in spray drying and demonstrate the potential for industrial production of stable, bioactive-rich powders from pomegranate peel.