We conclude that it is possible to coencapsulate menthol and xylitol
using the method of double emulsion followed by complex coacervation
because the cores were completely encapsulated by wall material.
Through the application of microcapsules in chewing gum, it is
confirmed that the microcapsules are able to promote the controlled
release of the core, gradually releasing the microcapsule contents
during chewing.
In future work aiming to extend the release time of the encapsulated
ingredients, it would be interesting to fortify the microcapsules by using
cross-linking agents or by coating the microcapsules with a second layer
by fluidized bed or spray coating. Moreover, it would be interesting to
investigate ways in which to increase the concentration of active compounds
(cooling agents) in microcapsules and in which to increase the
amount of microcapsules incorporated in chewing gum. Furthermore,
it would be interesting to dry the coacervates using methods other
than freeze drying to evaluate the possibility of obtaining xylitol encapsulated
in its crystalline form.