b-carotene is a promising natural colorant because its potential health benefits; however, its use is
sometimes limited because of its susceptibility to oxidation and thermal degradation. An emulsion
containing 0.06 g b-carotene/100 g emulsion was spray dried and fluidized bed coating was used to
encapsulate the b-carotene by spraying a solution with 10 g hydroxypropyl cellulose/100 g of coating
solution. Temperature and feed rate of coating solution were varied to evaluate b-carotene and color
stability during storage at different temperatures. Coated powders were analyzed for particle size,
moisture content, water activity, melting point and color. Coating temperature had an effect on bcarotene
content and powder color, but there was no clear trend on the effect of coating solution feed
rate. Decreasing b-carotene concentration was correlated with decreasing chroma and total difference
color values in coated powders during storage. Coated powders showed color stability when applied to
yogurt for up to 4 weeks of storage since low values of total difference color were observed