Microencapsulation and characterization of pomegranate seed oil using gum Arabic and maltodextrin blends for functional food applications

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is highly valued in the functional food industry due to its rich fatty acid content and associated health benefits. However, its high degree of unsaturation makes it susceptible to rapid degradation when exposed to oxygen and light. This study investigates the encapsulation of PSO at 15% w/w using different blends of gum Arabic (GA) and maltodextrin (MD) (1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 3:1, and 1:3) to determine optimal formulations for enhanced stability and functional quality. Characterization of the encapsulated PSO powders showed distinct particle morphologies, including flake-like shapes and textures ranging from smooth to wrinkled and porous. The Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra indicated shifts in functional groups from 2973.70 to 408.84 cm⁻¹, revealing the presence of aliphatic, amine, aromatic, carboxylic acid, and hydroxyl groups. Although no single formulation achieved all desired outcomes, the GA:MD ratios of 1:0 and 1:1 were superior in enhancing color properties (yellowness and chroma), techno-functional attributes (bulk density and solubility), and in preserving essential fatty acids, including stearic, cis-oleic, α-linolenic, arachidic, γ-linolenic, linoleic, and punicic acids. Additionally, GA:MD (3:1) powders exhibited superior ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activities (RSA). In conclusion, formulations using solely GA or GA:MD ratios of 1:1 and 3:1 effectively preserve bioactive content in PSO, enhancing its antioxidant capacity. These findings suggest promising applications for these encapsulated powders in developing functional foods that meet industry demands.