Chia seed protein isolate (CPI) and chia seed gum (CSG) were extracted and complex coacervation between
these two was studied. The pH and the CPI-to-CSG ratio were optimized to obtain the highest
yield of complex coacervates underpinned by zeta potential and turbidity values. CPIeCSG complex
coacervates were found to form primarily due to electrostatic interaction and remained stable within a
pH range of 2.1e2.9 at ambient temperature. The optimum pH and CPI-to-CSG ratio for complex coacervation
was found to be 2.7 and 6:1, respectively. Spray dried complex coacervate particles possessed
smoother surface morphology compared to the freeze dried ones. CPIeCSG complex coacervates
demonstrated better thermal stability as compared to that of individual CPI and CSG. The crosslinking of
these complex coacervates by transglutaminase further improved their thermal stability. Therefore, the
crosslinked CPIeCSG complex coacervates will be able to better protect the oxygen and heat sensitive
food and pharmaceutical ingredients.