A breakthrough achieved by microencapsulation specialist AnaBio Technologies and packaging giant SIG has made it possible to create a new category of shelf-stable probiotics-fortified dairy products. This innovation is particularly appealing to dairy producers as it allows for the production of long-life drinking yogurts fortified with probiotics that do not require refrigeration. By eliminating the need for refrigeration, the cost and distribution of these probiotic beverages become much more manageable and sustainable.
The CEO of AnaBio, Dr. Aidan Fitzsimons, emphasized the vast untapped market potential of releasing probiotic beverages from the fridge. Currently, probiotic-enriched drinks only make up a small portion of the beverage market, but this could significantly increase if they can be kept outside the fridge. The process of producing these novel ready-to-drink (RTD) probiotic beverages involves adding the probiotic in small quantities through a pre-mix. The microencapsulated probiotics used in this process can survive at high temperatures, making them ideal for UHT milks.
Recently, AnaBio and SIG jointly announced the industry’s first shelf-stable probiotic-fortified drinking yogurt. To ensure a homogenous suspension of the probiotics in the liquid, SIG applied specific filling and processing parameters. This is crucial for achieving consistent probiotic levels in each pack, as required by regulations. SIG’s filling technology gently processes and distributes the probiotics evenly throughout the product without damaging the cells.
In terms of aseptic packaging, this new concept offered by SIG is comparable to their traditional offerings. It can be run with existing SIG packaging material and filled using their standard filling technology. This packaging solution provides ambient, long-life products with a higher level of healthiness, aligning with SIG’s vision of offering more healthy food in aseptic packaging.
One of the major advantages of this concept is the cost savings it offers beverage makers by eliminating the need for refrigeration throughout the supply chain. Distribution costs can vary depending on factors such as travel distance, vehicle used, and infrastructure. However, storing, transporting, and displaying these products without refrigeration can significantly reduce distribution costs.
The development of this packaging offering and its suitability for probiotic-enriched ambient yogurt took approximately 12 months. The main challenge was ensuring a holistic end-to-end development from product conception to aseptic packaging, processing, and filling. This concept has generated great interest from manufacturers looking to launch their own probiotic-enriched ambient yogurt. The versatility of the solution allows for encapsulation and packaging of various probiotics and bioactives, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and more.
In summary, the collaboration between AnaBio Technologies and SIG has enabled the creation of a new category of shelf-stable probiotics-fortified dairy products. This innovation eliminates the need for refrigeration, reduces distribution costs, and offers manufacturers the opportunity to tap into a growing market. With the ability to create a homogenous suspension of probiotics and use existing packaging materials, this concept provides a sustainable and efficient solution for the food and beverage industry.
