The present disclosure teaches methods, materials, and structures for encapsulating
probiotic microorganisms in a biocompatible encapsulation compound. The encapsulation compound may be a
cyclodextrin macrocyclic molecule that has a hollow, cone-shaped, central cavity.
Probiotic microorganisms are then encapsulated partially, or completely, inside of the hollow, central cavity of the
cyclodextrin molecule to make a
cyclodextrin inclusion complex. The resulting encapsulated
probiotic assembly provides enhanced stability and
bioavailability of the
probiotic microorganisms during storage and after
ingestion, as well as offering protection against environmental stressors, such as heat,
moisture, and
oxygen. The
sugar-like cyclodextrin encapsulant material may also serve a
prebiotic function of supporting beneficial
gut flora proliferation and improved probiotic viability in the
gastrointestinal tract. The cyclodextrin macrocyclic molecule may be an α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and / or γ-cyclodextrin molecule, and / or combinations thereof. Other biocompatible encapsulation compounds may be used, including polysaccharides, liposomes, alginates, chitosans, gelatins, and polyvinyl alcohols.