Characterization, techno-functional properties, and encapsulation efficiency of self-assembled β-lactoglobulin nanostructures.

Whey is a cheese co-product with high protein content used in the food industry due to its techno-functional properties and nutritive value. This study aims to optimize the production of β-lactoglobulin (β-lg) nanostructures, to characterize their techno-functional properties and stability, and to apply them as a carrier of bioactive molecules. Box-Behnken planning was applied to determine the best conditions to obtain the β-lg nanostructure, which consists in treatment at 100 °C in NaCl 50 mmol·L for 60 min.