Microfluidic encapsulation for carotenoid stability under climate stress

In 2020, Scotland’s aquaculture sector generated £362 million in GVA, producing 204,000 tonnes of Atlantic salmon—the UK’s most valuable food export. Carotenoids like astaxanthin and zeaxanthin are key feed additives, supporting fish immunity, pigment, and resilience to climate-driven stressors such as low oxygen (<5 mg/L), high temperature, and pH fluctuations (6.5–8.5). However, up to 60% of carotenoids are lost during storage and leaching, and only 2–22% are retained in fish tissue post-ingestion. This project uses microfluidic technology to encapsulate carotenoids in stable microdroplets to reduce degradation and improve nutrient uptake. TU Braunschweig will optimise microfluidic chip design and encapsulation efficiency. The University of Stirling will assess carotenoid stability and bioavailability in Artemia under simulated stress conditions. The project improves nutrient efficiency (carotenoid retention/uptake) under multiple environment conditions, while reducing waste. It also supports joint academic outputs and lays the foundation for future EU and UKRI proposals.