ABSTRACT
The qualitative properties, functionality, and stability of spray dried encapsulates depend both on a series of formulation factors (e.g., core and carrier type, their chemical and physical properties, and weight ratio) and process parameters, which have an overall effect on their physical, structural, and functionality attributes and, in turn, their performances in terms of usage and stability. The evaluation of qualitative and technological properties of the encapsulated powders obtained by spray drying is, thus, important to optimize process conditions so as to enhance drying and encapsulation efficiency. This improves the applicability of the final products in food systems, maximizing their functionality in both food and non-food products, and to identify the optimal storage conditions. In this chapter, the main process efficiency indices, as well as the main qualitative (physical, structural) and techno-functional properties of spray dried encapsulates, along with the main methodologies and instrumental techniques available for their determination or estimation, will be briefly presented and reviewed.
