Researchers have developed acid-resistant core–shell probiotic microcapsules designed to simultaneously deliver calcium and beneficial bacteria, demonstrating improved calcium bioavailability and probiotic survival in laboratory tests and animal models. Calcium deficiency represents a widespread global health risk that can induce osteoporosis, prompting the design of dual-delivery carrier systems. In a study published in Food Science and Biotechnology, investigators fabricated and evaluated these specialized microcapsules to improve probiotic gastric tolerance while enhancing calcium uptake.

The fabrication process began with preparing basic capsules through a water-in-water emulsion technique. Investigators then established the core–shell architecture through surface adsorption using nano-calcium carbonate. Microstructural tests verified the successful fabrication of core–shell microcapsules.

During in vitro gastrointestinal digestion assessments, the researchers observed that increasing concentrations of calcium carbonate markedly boosted probiotic viability. Core–shell capsules exerted better protective effects than ordinary counterparts.

In vivo trials using calcium-deficient mice demonstrated that dietary supplementation with the microcapsules synergistically elevated both calcium absorption and retention rates. The intervention decreased serum alkaline phosphatase activity, while optimizing bone mineral density, trabecular morphology, and biomechanical bone properties. Furthermore, the microcapsule supplementation increased the relative abundance of intestinal Limosilactobacillus species and enhanced gut butyric acid production, indicating a promising approach for calcium supplementation and intestinal health improvement.

Subject of Research: Core-shell microcapsules for dual delivery of calcium and probiotics

Article Title: In vitro and in vivo evaluation of acid-resistant core–shell microcapsules for dual-delivery of calcium and probiotics

Article References: Qu, X., Zhao, Y., Zhao, M., & Cui, B. (2026). In vitro and in vivo evaluation of acid-resistant core–shell microcapsules for dual-delivery of calcium and probiotics. Food Science and Biotechnology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10068-026-02307-5

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1007/s10068-026-02307-5

Keywords: probiotics, calcium deficiency, microcapsules, osteoporosis, calcium bioavailability, Limosilactobacillus, bone mineral density, butyric acid, vitro, vivo, evaluation, acid-resistant

News Source: Scienmag.