Potato protein is produced from a widely available and inexpensive raw food material and constitute an added-value by-product of potato starch production. Potato protein has very low allergenicity and is considered GRAS by the FDA, moreover, it is acceptable by vegan and vegetarian consumers. We developed an effective delivery systems based on potato protein for encapsulation of hydrophobic compounds.
Vitamin D is a fat soluble nutraceutical of great importance for multi-system physiological function: calcium and bone metabolism, insulin reactivity, cell differentiation, the immune system and more. However its deficiency is a global pandemic. Potato protein shows promise as a good protective carrier for Vitamin D for enrichment of clear beverages and other food & drink products, to promote human health.
(David, et al. (2016) Food Hydrocolloids, 57, 229-235.)
Astaxanthin is a potent – but highly lipophilic antioxidant, to which many health benefits are attributed. AX consumption was associated with reduced risk for cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and more. The encapsulation of astaxanthin in potato protein based microcapsules was shown to improve its solubility, bioaccessibility, and in vitro bioavailability (Edelman, et al. (2019). Food Hydrocolloids, 96, 72-80.)
