In vitro lipolysis of fish oil microcapsules containing protein and resistant starch

Microencapsulated fish oil powders (50% oil:25% protein:25% starch) were prepared using a physical blend or a heated mixture of sodium caseinate and pre-processed resistant starch as encapsulants. The in vitro digestibility of microcapsules by lipase, amylase and proteases were examined. Heat treatment of the encapsulants and exposure of microcapsules to simulated gastric fluid (SGF) prior to addition of lipase, trypsin and amylase altered the susceptibility of the microcapsules to digestion. Lipolysis of microcapsules occurred in the presence of lipase alone and was increased in the presence of amylase and/or trypsin. Pre-exposure of microcapsules to SGF had different effects on lipolysis, which depended on the nature of the encapsulant material. Lipolysis in the presence of lipase alone was due to the displacement of the interfacial layer. Increased lipolysis in the presence of amylase and/or trypsin was attributed to the digestion of the encapsulant, which facilitated displacement of the interface of oil droplets by bile salts.