Propolis microencapsulation by double emulsion solvent evaporation approach: Comparison of different polymeric matrices and extract to polymer ratio

Abstract Propolis, a heterogeneous matrix produced by honeybees, is an antioxidant amongst other valuable biological properties. Nevertheless, the practical application of propolis, especially for the food industry, is still limited due to its relative high hydrophilicity and strong/unpleasant taste and aroma. Accordingly, microencapsulation arises a potential alternative approach to protect propolis compounds while allowing to mask its unpleasant sensory properties. The purpose of this study was to microencapsulate propolis extracts in lipophilic polymer-carriers using alternative propolis extract to polymer ratios – 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 – by double emulsion solvent evaporation approach. The product yield was higher than the previously reported in the literature (80.3 ± 3.7% versus 68%). The encapsulation efficiencies (considering the encapsulated antioxidants and phenolic compounds) were independent from the propolis extract to polymer ratio, for the studied lipophilic polymer-carriers. The results of this work provide promising approaches for the manufacture of propolis extracts-loaded microparticles for further incorporation in functional matrices.