Characterization, stability, and in vivo effects in Caenorhabditis elegans of microencapsulated protein hydrolysates from stripped weakfish (Cynoscion guatucupa) industrial byproducts

This study aimed to microencapsulate protein hydrolysates from stripped weakfish (Cynoscion guatucupa) industrial byproducts produced by Alcalase (HA) and Protamex (HP) spray drying, using maltodextrin as wall material. The physicochemical characteristics, in vitro antioxidant Angiotensin-I converting enzyme-inhibitory activities were evaluated during storage. Both microencapsulated showed spherical shape (~3.6 µm particle diameter), low water activity (<0.155) storage reduced hygroscopicity (~30%) compared the free hydrolysate. Infrared spectroscopy evidenced maltodextrin-hydrolysate interaction. Based on results, nematoid C. elegans L1 larval stage treated with HP, which demonstrated a protective effect exposed oxidative stress (survival ~ 13% control, 77% 85% HP) improved their growth reproduction rate. Thus, microencapsulation appears be good alternative maintain stability storage, showing bioactivity elegans.