Optimization of Emulsification and Microencapsulation of Balangu (Lallemantia royleana) Seed Oil by Surface Response Methodology

Balangu (Lallemantia royleana) seed oil is a valuable source of omega-6 fatty acids that reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Due to the high sensitivity of this oil to environmental factors, microencapsulation has been recommended to preserve valuable compounds of oils and prevent adverse environmental effects. In this study, the oil of balangu seeds was extracted using a combination of ultrasound and shaking incubation and was microencapsulated using an emulsification method. The process was optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM). For this purpose, the effect of three independent variables such as chitosan concentration (0–1.5%), sodium alginate concentration (0–4.5%), and pH (3–7) on emulsification and microencapsulation condition was analyzed. The results showed that the optimal conditions for emulsification and microencapsulation included 0.30% chitosan, 0.14% sodium alginate, and pH 3. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the structure of the optimal sample was smooth, spherical, and without cracks, which confirms the success of emulsification and microencapsulation processes.