# Fabricating Zein-OSA Starch Complexes as Multifunctional Carriers for Carrot Oil

## TL;DR

This study creates plant-based carriers to protect and deliver carrot oil, improving its stability and functionality for practical use.

## Contribution

A rational approach to fabricating Zein-OSA starch complexes for multifunctional delivery of oxidation-prone oils.

## Key findings

- The 1:1 Zein-OSA complex showed optimal molecular compatibility and thermal stability.
- The 1:2 complex provided uniform droplets and superior salt tolerance in emulsions.
- Microencapsulation produced a stable, free-flowing powder from the emulsions.

## Abstract

This study tackles the stabilization and delivery challenges of oxidation-prone carrot oil by engineering tailored Zein-OSA starch hybrid complexes. The influence of complex mass ratios (1:2, 1:1, 2:1) on key structural, colloidal, and functional properties was meticulously evaluated. The complexes were analyzed through spectroscopy, thermal methods, and microscopy. Derived emulsions were assessed for stability under environmental stresses (pH, salts, storage), alongside their rheological behavior and aroma retention. The 1:1 complex emerged with optimal molecular compatibility, thermal stability, and barrier properties. In emulsions, the 1:2 formulation provided the most uniform droplets and superior salt tolerance, while the 1:1 ratio yielded the best pH stability. All emulsions were shear-thinning. Microencapsulation effectively converted the emulsion into a stable, free-flowing powder. This work demonstrates a rational approach to designing robust plant-based delivery systems for protecting and improving the functionality of sensitive lipophilic ingredients in practical applications.