Pectin-Based Nano-Sized Emulsions Prepared by High-Pressure Homogenization

Pectin-based nanoemulsions loaded with itraconazole were prepared using high-pressure homogenizer comparing to sonicator. The high-pressure homogenization provided the smaller size of emulsions when homogenizing time was increased. Using the homogenizing pressure of 100 MPa for 90 minutes could provide nano-sized emulsions. Sonication method could reduce the emulsion size, however, the size was limited to approximately 2 mu m. The type of pectin also influenced the emulsion size. Using high methoxyl pectin (HMP) provided the smallest emulsion, compared to low methoxyl pectin (LMP) and amidated low methoxyl pectin (ALMP). This may be due to the high portion of hydrophobic moieties of HMP which provides better emulsifying properties. From these results, the high-pressure homogenization could produce the nano-sized emulsions. Pectin type significantly influenced the emulsion properties. Therefore, the use of high-pressure homogenization method with the proper emulsifiers could provide the nano-sized emulsions.