Description

Algal DHA Microencapsulated Powder (Starch-Based Encapsulation)

1.Microcapsule Omega-3 DHA Ingredient for Food and Nutritional Applications

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid belonging to the Omega-3 family. It is widely recognized as an essential nutrient for human health and development and is commonly referred to as “brain gold”.
DHA plays a vital role in the development and function of the nervous system. It is a key structural component of the brain and retina. Research shows that DHA accounts for approximately 20% of fatty acids in the human cerebral cortex and about 50% in the retina, highlighting its importance for brain development and visual function.
DHA is particularly important for infants, children, and pregnant women because it contributes to the development of cognitive and visual functions. Since the human body has limited ability to synthesize DHA, it must be obtained through dietary intake or nutritional supplementation.
As a result, DHA has become an essential ingredient in many nutritional products, including infant formula, functional foods, and dietary supplements.

2.Microencapsulation Technology

DHA is highly unsaturated and sensitive to oxidation, light, and environmental conditions. To improve its stability and allow it to be used effectively in food systems, DHA algal oil is processed using microencapsulation technology.
During this process, DHA oil is emulsified and encapsulated within a protective carrier matrix composed primarily of octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch (OSA starch). The microencapsulation process forms stable microcapsules containing sub-micron and nano-scale oil droplets.
The microcapsule structure protects DHA from oxidation and improves stability during processing and storage.
Key characteristics of the resulting powder include:
• Dry, free-flowing powder appearance
• No sticking, caking, or moisture absorption
• Good water solubility
• Stable dispersion in food formulations
• Excellent flowability during manufacturing
The powder has a light DHA oil aroma without any unpleasant odor, making it suitable for sensitive food applications.

3.Starch-Based Encapsulation System

This product uses octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch as the primary encapsulation carrier. Starch-based encapsulation systems are widely used in food ingredient technology due to their functional and processing advantages.
Benefits of the starch-based carrier system include:
• Good compatibility with various food formulations
• Stable encapsulation structure
• Suitable for powder-based nutritional products
• Improved stability of sensitive lipids
The encapsulated DHA oil remains evenly distributed within the microcapsule structure, allowing the ingredient to maintain stability throughout storage and application.

4.DHA Algal Oil Source

The DHA oil used in this product is derived from marine microalgae (Schizochytrium) cultivated through patented fermentation technology in closed fermentation tanks.
After fermentation, the oil is extracted and purified through physical separation and distillation processes, ensuring high purity and quality without solvent residues.
Key characteristics of the algal DHA oil include:
• High DHA content
• Low EPA content
• Low peroxide value
• Low anisidine value
• No solvent residue contamination
These properties help ensure a stable ingredient with reduced odor and extended shelf life.

5.Natural Triglyceride (TG) Form DHA

The DHA contained in this microencapsulated powder exists in natural triglyceride (TG) form, which is the natural molecular structure of DHA found in food sources.
Triglyceride-form DHA is widely used in nutritional ingredients because of its compatibility with food systems and efficient absorption in the human body.

6.Product Specifications
Product Name: DHA Microencapsulated Powder (Starch-Based)
DHA Content:
• ≥7%
• ≥10%
• ≥20%
Fatty Acid Structure: Triglyceride (TG)
Main Ingredients:
• DHA Algal Oil
• Octenyl Succinic Anhydride Modified Starch
Product Standards:
• Q/HXH0008S-2024 Enterprise Standard
• GB26687 National Standard

7.Packaging

Standard packaging specifications:
• 1 kg / bag × 10 bags per carton
• 5 kg / bag × 2 bags per carton
Packaging material: Food-grade aluminum foil bags designed to protect the powder from moisture and oxidation.

8.Application Areas

DHA Microencapsulated Powder (Starch-Based) is suitable for a wide range of nutritional and functional food applications.
Typical applications include:
8.1Infant Nutrition
• Infant formula milk powder
• Follow-on formula
• Formulated milk powder
8.2Dietary Supplements
• Nutritional supplement powders
• Omega-3 tablets
• Nutritional capsules
8.3Health Foods
• Solid beverage powders
• Functional nutrition products
8.4Special Nutrition
• Foods for special medical purposes (FSMP)
Because of its good solubility and stability, the ingredient integrates well into powdered nutritional formulations and functional food systems.

9.Stable and Traceable DHA Supply

The DHA algal oil used in this ingredient is produced through controlled microbial fermentation technology. This production method allows consistent quality and traceable manufacturing processes.
Advantages include:
• Stable raw material supply
• Controlled production conditions
• Traceable manufacturing process
• Reduced dependence on marine resources
This ensures reliable supply for global food and nutrition manufacturers.

10.Quality Certifications

The product is manufactured under internationally recognized quality management systems including:
• ISO9001 Quality Management System
• ISO22000 Food Safety Management System
• FSSC22000 Food Safety Certification
Additional certifications include:
• Halal Certification
• Kosher Certification

11.OEM & Customized Formulation

Customized solutions are available to support different product development needs.
OEM services may include:
• DHA content adjustment
• Encapsulation carrier system options
• Fish oil or algal oil DHA sources
• Customized packaging formats
• Application-specific formulation development

FAQ: Algal Oil DHA Microencapsulated Powder 7%–20% (Starch-Based)

1. What is Algal Oil DHA Microencapsulated Powder (Starch-Based)?

It is an omega-3 nutritional ingredient in powder form, produced by microencapsulation technology, where DHA-rich algal oil is embedded within a modified starch (OSA starch) matrix. This structure protects DHA and enhances its stability and usability in food and supplement applications.

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2. What are the available DHA concentrations?

The product is typically available in ≥7%, ≥10%, and ≥20% DHA content, allowing flexibility for different formulation and cost requirements.

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3. What is the source of DHA?

The DHA is derived from Schizochytrium microalgae, produced through controlled fermentation, ensuring a sustainable, vegetarian, and non-fish source of omega-3.

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4. In what form does the DHA exist?

DHA is present in its natural triglyceride (TG) form, which is known for better absorption and bioavailability compared to some synthetic forms.

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5. What is the role of OSA modified starch in the product?

Octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified starch acts as a wall material, forming a protective barrier around DHA oil droplets. It improves:

• Oxidative stability
• Dispersibility in water-based systems
• Processing performance

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6. What are the key physical characteristics of the powder?

• Free-flowing powder
• Non-sticky and non-caking
• Low hygroscopicity
• Good solubility and dispersibility

These properties make it suitable for industrial-scale production.

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7. Does the product have any fishy odor or taste?

No. It has a mild DHA aroma without unpleasant fishy odor, making it highly suitable for sensory-sensitive applications such as infant formula and beverages.

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8. What are the main application areas?

This ingredient is widely used in:

• Infant formula and follow-up milk
• Dietary supplements (tablets, capsules, sachets)
• Functional foods and beverages
• Solid drinks and powdered nutrition products
• Foods for special medical purposes (FSMP)

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9. Is the product suitable for vegetarian or vegan products?

Yes. Since it is derived from microalgae rather than fish, it is suitable for vegetarian and vegan formulations.

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10. How stable is the DHA during processing?

The microencapsulation structure significantly improves DHA stability, protecting it from:

• Oxidation
• Heat processing (to a certain extent)
• Light exposure

This makes it suitable for various food processing conditions.

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11. What is the typical shelf life and storage condition?

• Shelf life: عادة 18–24 months (depending on specification)
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, away from heat, light, and moisture, in sealed packaging

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12. What certifications does the product have?

The product is typically manufactured under:

• ISO9001
• ISO22000
• FSSC22000

And can comply with:

• Halal
• Kosher

(Exact certifications may vary by batch or supplier.)

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13. Is the product safe and compliant with international standards?

Yes. It is produced using controlled fermentation and physical refining processes, with no solvent residues, and complies with global food safety and quality standards.

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14. Can this powder be used in high-temperature processing?

Yes, within limits. The encapsulation provides improved thermal stability, but extreme heat or prolonged processing may still cause partial DHA degradation. Process optimization is recommended.

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15. What are the advantages of starch-based encapsulation compared to other carriers?

Starch-based encapsulation offers:

• Cost-effectiveness
• Good compatibility with food systems
• Neutral taste and color
• Good dispersibility in aqueous applications

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16. What packaging options are available?

Typically supplied in aluminum foil bags or fiber drums with inner liners, in sizes such as 10 kg / 20 kg / 25 kg, depending on customer requirements.

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17. Can customized specifications be provided?

Yes. Customization may include:

• Different DHA concentrations
• Particle size optimization
• Application-specific formulations