Microencapsulation of Probiotics by Calcium Alginate and Gelatin and Evaluation of its Survival in Simulated Human Gastro-Intestinal Condition

Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms which, when administrated in adequate amounts confer health benefit on humans (FAO, 2001). Bacteria belonging to genera Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus are often used as probiotic supplements (Homayouni, 2008). With potential health advantages such as alleviation of symptoms of lactose malabsorption, cancer suppression, resistance to infectious gastro-intestinal disease, and improving digestion (Anal et al., 2007; Aragon-Alegro et al., 2007; Shah, 2007). The prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth and activity of bacteria in the colon. The most frequently studied examples are inulin and FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) are known to have a positive effect on human health and promote the survival of probiotic bacteria (Capela et al., 2006).