Recent advances in plant and microbial polysaccharide-based probiotic microcapsules: Encapsulation methods, materials properties, improvement strategies and applications

Probiotics offer significant health benefits but face challenges in viability during storage, processing, and digestion. Microencapsulation, particularly using plant and microbial polysaccharides, has emerged as a key strategy to enhance probiotic stability. This review examines various microencapsulation techniques, including extrusion, emulsion, spray drying, freeze drying, electrospraying and layer-by-layer assembly. This paper analyses the limitations and technical characteristics of each method. Additionally, we explore novel strategies such as polysaccharide modification, composite materials, and genetic engineering to enhance microcapsule performance. Finally, applications in dairy, bakery, and functional foods are summarized, providing insights for future research directions.