POLLEN EXINES - A novel method of microencapsulation using plant pollen exines: LINK Project Summary

This factsheet outlines the results of work funded through the Renewable Materials LINK Programme to investigate a novel method for microencapsulation using plant pollen exines.

The aim of the project was to determine whether the Sporomex microencapsulation technology was viable on an industrial scale using UK harvested pollen.

Sporomex technology removes the genetic material from pollen to leave a hollow porous shell. This shell is able to withstand acids, alkalis and temperatures greater than 250 °C. It can also be refilled with an active substance such as an omega-3 oil. The shell has anti-oxidant properties and provides protection against ultra violet-light.

Before the project, the extraction method for Lycopodium clavatum spores took about a week for a 10g sample. Lycopodium clavatum is not grown commercially in the UK, so alternative crops were required and cereal rye (Secale cereal) and maize (Zea mays) were chosen. Different sized pollens are required for different applications. Rye pollen is 42 μm in diameter, whereas maize is 80 μm. The target product was a pollen shell/oil powder containing 50 per cent omega-3 oil.