Evaluation of Functional and Sensory Properties of Ice-cream Incorporating Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil Microcapsules

Abstract

Background: The food industry continuously explores new formulations to resolve the growing consumer requirement for healthier, functional foods. Sea buckthorn seed oil (SBSO) is recognized for its recuperative and therapeutic advantages. The current research investigates the incorporation of microencapsulated SBSO in ice cream. Methods: A base ice cream mixture was prepared using 10% milk fat, 14% sucrose, 0.5% emulsifier, along with 0.5% stabilizer. The SBSO was microencapsulated using an atomization drying method with maltodextrin and inulin as wall materials. Encapsulated and non-encapsulated SBSO both were added into the ice cream, followed by optimization of formulations based on parameters including antioxidant activity, total phenolic content (TPC), sensory properties, viscosity, overrun as well as hardness. The ice cream sample containing 2% SBSO exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with a DPPH inhibition of 88.73% and TPC of 24.23 mg GA eq./g. Meanwhile, the ice cream with encapsulated SBSO powder (1%) demonstrated superior sensory attributes, viscosity, overrun and hardness compared to other formulations. Furthermore, the TPC increased proportionally with higher encapsulated and non-encapsulated SBSO levels. Result: These results suggest that as a natural bioactive ingredient, sea buckthorn seed oil holds potential for creating innovative ice cream formulations with improved antioxidant properties. © 2025 Agricultural Research Communication Centre. All rights reserved.