Level of type L metacrylate acid copolymer as microparticle matrix improves Lactobacillus casei protection against gastric acid

Background: Lactobacillus casei is a probiotic that has an ability to protect the intestine, but is damaged due to the acid pH in the stomach. A system is needed to provide protection. Probiotic microencapsulation can provide protection against Lactobacillus casei by increasing the levels of methacrylic acid copolymers. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of type L methacrylic acid copolymers as microparticle matrix on the protection system of Lactobacillus casei against acidic atmosphere. Method: Lactobacillus casei probiotic microparticles were made from three formulas using matrix type L methacrylic acid copolymers with levels in formulas I, II, and III, each of which was 0.50%; 0.75%; and 1.00% by spray drying technique at 120oC inlet temperature. Results: Moisture content decreased with the increasing levels of methacrylic acid copolymers from formulas I, II and III with 10.05% ± 0.49; 9.77% ± 0.19 and 7.45% ± 0.11 respectively. In determining particle size, the results increased simultaneously with the increasing levels of methacrylic acid copolymers in formulas I, II and III, which were 3.29 ± 0.07; 3.79 ± 0.06 and 4.34 ± 0.13 respectively. Conclusion: Increasing the level of L type methacrylic acid copolymer as a matrix can increase the protection capability of Lactobacillus casei microparticles against gastric acid.