Formulation Optimization and Characterization of Spray-Dried Medium Chain Triglycerides-Rich Oil

Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are important substrates of the energy metabolism and anabolic processes in mammals. In this study, MCT-rich oil was encapsulated in the mixing ratios of maltodextrin and protein by spray drying to produce spray-dried MCT-rich oil (SMCT). Spray-dried conditions were an inlet temperature of 200 °C, an outlet temperature of 90 °C, and a flow rate of 0.70 L/h. Box–Behnken experimental design and response surface methodology were applied for modeling the influence of formulation variables on powder recovery of SMCT. The key variables were concentration of maltodextrin (10-30% W/W), total protein (5–15% w/w), and MCT-rich oil (5–15% w/w). The microparticles were characterized in terms of particle morphology, yield, Carr's index, moisture content, flowability, hygroscopicity, and powder diffraction. The highest yield of SMCT was 41.19% obtained under the optimized conditions (maltodextrin concentration of 15% w/w, total protein concentration of 8% w/w, MCT-rich oil concentration of 15%). Experimentally obtained values were consistent with those predicted by the model, indicating the suitability of the employed model and the success of the model in optimizing the formulation.