Project Description:

Probiotics and starter cultures are usually produced in a dried form, to obtain an easy-to-use ingredient. Drying also allows a stable and extended shelf-life, reduces transportation costs, and facilitates trade. Among technologies available, spray drying is one of the commonly used methods as it is inexpensive, simple, fast, and highly productive. However, the use of spray drying is associated with several stresses, including heat, osmotic, and desiccation, which could compromise cell’s viability and functionalities. This study aims to optimize spray drying conditions, including inlet temperature and wall material, and investigate their effects on probiotic’s survival and functionality. In addition, the study also investigates the effect of spray drying-associated stress to probiotics gene expression.