Development of a pomelo pectin-based microencapsulation system for Akkermansia muciniphila

Pomelo (Citrus maxima) is rich in polyphenolic compounds. Pectin extracted from pomelo peel offers various health benefits. This study evaluated the properties of pomelo pulp extracts and pectin at different ratios. Microencapsulation was employed to enhance stability and assess protective effects on next-generation probiotics. Naringin, the primary active compound, was quantified at 2.58 mg/mL in pulp extract and 1.66 mg/mL in pectin. The pectin was classified as low-methoxyl pectin (LM), with a degree of esterification (DE) of 35.0%, equivalent weight (EW) of 323 mg/mol, methoxyl content (MeO) of 5.16%, and total anhydrogalacturonic acid of 83.79% in this study. Microcapsules were prepared using 1%, 2%, and 3% sodium alginate, achieving encapsulation efficiencies of 24.4%, 40.5%, and 66.7%, respectively. Stability tests confirmed that 3% sodium alginate microcapsules exhibited optimal encapsulation efficiency and stability. In probiotic culture experiments, Akkermansia muciniphila growth and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production were significantly enhanced by microcapsules containing pomelo pulp extract and pectin. These findings suggest that pomelo-based microcapsules may promote gut health by supporting next-generation probiotics.