Materials and methods used in the microencapsulation of substances of food and agricultural interest

Abstract

Microencapsulation consists of trapping solid, liquid or gas particles inside an inert cover, in order to protect them from their environment. This technique has numerous biotechnological applications in the food, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries, among others. Microcapsules are relevant for obtaining viable products and optimizing their efficacy, stability, safety and ease of application. There is a wide range of coating materials and techniques used for the microencapsulation of various substances of interest. A review of encapsulating materials and microencapsulation methods used in the food and agricultural industries is presented.