The impact of high pressure homogenization (HPH) on physical characteristics and emulsion stability of
nutritional formulations were evaluated on a pilot scale HPH unit. Two products of industrial interest
were used for these experiments. Manufactured formulations were analyzed using material characterization
methods as particle size distribution, microscopy and dynamic mechanical spectra, compared to a
control formula manufactured with conventional homogenization and heat treatments. Dynamic rheological
measurements as strain and frequency sweeps exhibited increased product stability in parallel to
increased homogenization pressures. Homogenization at elevated pressures yielded more shear thinning
fluids evidenced by increased viscosities at low shear rates, ten fold greater compared to the control
treatment, further evidence to increased physical stability. Experimental findings revealed the existence
of a threshold pressure (100e150 MPa) for both formulations exhibiting significant correlation with
product quality and physical stability. The study outcomes presents an opportunity for reducing stabilizer
concentration in dairy beverages; in addition to shelf life and physical stability improvement for
formulations treated at increased homogenization pressures.