Fabrication and characterization of high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs) of ω-3 algal oil stabilized with seaweed-derived particles

This study investigated high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs) of algal oil stabilized with particles from red seaweed. The particles featured a favorable contact angle (81.5°), 43.2 % β-sheet content, and irregular morphology with rough surfaces. These features enabled the formation of HIPPEs at 0.5–2.0 % particle concentrations in the aqueous phase. All formulations had highly negative zeta potentials (∼ −70 to −74 mV), indicating strong electrostatic stabilization. Droplet size decreased significantly with increasing concentration ( p < 0.05) and plateaued at 1.5–2.0 % on day 1 (D 3,2 –2.7 μm). Emulsions with 1.5 % and 2.0 % particles (E-1.5 and E-2.0) exhibited higher physical stability (Turbiscan Stability Index: 3.63 and 2.12, respectively) and dominant elastic behavior. Higher particle loads enhanced viscosity, microstructural resistance, and oxidative stability, with E-2.0 maintaining the lowest peroxide value (21.06 meq/kg oil) and reduced α-tocopherol degradation and oxidation volatiles. These findings support seaweed-derived particles as natural Pickering stabilizers in ω-3-rich emulsions. • Seaweed-derived particles were used as Pickering stabilizers for HIPPEs. • Higher particle levels increased physical stability, viscosity, and elasticity. • Increased particles led to firmer structure and higher interfacial coverage. • Elevated particle loads reduced oxidative volatiles in HIPPEs of ω-3 algal oil. • Red seaweed particles offer a novel, natural antioxidant Pickering colloid.