🌟 Patent of the Week: Probiotic Infused Snacks That Work & Last

University of Waterloo Pioneers a Breakthrough in Probiotic Stability and Effectiveness

What’s the Big Idea?

This patent unveils a novel encapsulation technique designed to significantly enhance the delivery and viability of probiotics in functional foods. By utilizing ferulic acid coated cellulose nanocrystals and shellac complexes, this technology provides a robust, sustainable, and biocompatible method to maintain probiotic efficacy through harsh gastric environments and enable targeted release in the intestines.

Why It Matters

Probiotics are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome but often lose their potency when exposed to the acidic conditions of the stomach. The technology developed by Dr. Michael Tam and his team promises to safeguard these beneficial bacteria until they reach their destination in the gut, enhancing the effectiveness of probiotic products. This could revolutionize the functional food industry and have significant implications for consumer health and wellness.

Stage of Development

Currently, this technology is at the prototype stage, with ongoing developments to optimize the delivery mechanisms and expand potential applications.

Interested?

For more details or to explore licensing opportunities, please contact Scott Inwood, Director of Commercialization at the Waterloo Commercialization Office, via email at sinwood@uwaterloo.ca or by phone at 519-888-4567, ext. 43728.

The Details

• Patent Status: US Patent Application #63/372,209

• Inventors: Dr. Michael Tam, Dr. Baek Jiyoo, Dr. Ramasamy Mohankandhasamy, and Cho David Gunhee

• Reference: University of Waterloo’s Patent Page

🎨 About the artist

Shusei Nagaoka was a renowned Japanese illustrator known for his vibrant album cover art in the 1970s and 1980s for iconic bands like Electric Light Orchestra and Earth, Wind & Fire.