Enhancing Viability of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Total Polyphenol Content in Fermented Black Goji Berry Beverage Through Calcium–Alginate Encapsulation with Hydrocolloids

Encapsulation techniques play a crucial role in enhancing the stability and viability of probiotics in functional foods. This study investigates the efficacy of calcium-alginate encapsulation, combined with hydrocolloids such as carrageenan, agar, and gelatin, in improving the survival of <i>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</i> GG (LGG) and stabilizing the total phenolic content (TPC) in fermented black goji berry beverages. The results revealed that 1.5% alginate encapsulation, combined with 1% carrageenan, agar, or gelatin and 5% calcium, significantly enhanced the LGG viability and increased the TPC content in the fermented black goji berry beads when compared to calcium-alginate encapsulation alone. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the successful incorporation and interaction of hydrocolloids within the encapsulation matrix. Among the formulations, calcium-alginate-gelatin beads exhibited the highest LGG survival rates after simulated gastric and intestinal digestion. Notably, calcium-alginate beads containing carrageenan preserved LGG viability during simulated gastric and intestinal conditions when co-digested with all tested milk types (high carbohydrate, high protein, and high fat). Co-ingestion with these milk types further improved TPC retention in all bead formulations, as the macronutrients in milk provided protective effects, stabilizing the encapsulated polyphenols and minimizing their degradation during simulated gastric and intestinal digestion. This study highlights the potential of calcium-alginate encapsulation, integrated with hydrocolloids such as carrageenan, agar, or gelatin, to improve probiotic viability and polyphenol stability, offering promising applications for enhancing the functional properties of non-dairy fermented beverages.