Encapsulation of vegetable oils in polylactic acid nanofibers to improve oil retencion in feed aquaculture

Abstract

The feed used in fish farming contains lipids that erode and disperse in water, adversely affecting fish nutrition and contributing to water pollution. This study evaluated the encapsulation of corn and gold linseed oils in polylactic acid (PLA) nanofibers produced via Solution Blow Spinning. The nanofibers were characterized using Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), contact angle analysis, and encapsulation efficiency tests. Additionally, the release profiles of the oils were studied under simulated tank water and gastrointestinal conditions. The results demonstrated successful encapsulation of the oils within the PLA matrix. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of oil in the nanofibers (wavenumbers 2925 and 2853 cm-1), with encapsulation efficiencies ranging from 81.54±10.36% to 99.14±4.55%. SEM revealed uniform nanofiber morphology with smooth surfaces and average diameters between 157±49 and 385±133 nm. All nanofibers exhibited contact angles above 90°, indicating hydrophobic behavior. Feed samples containing free oils showed significantly higher lipid release into water compared to feed incorporating encapsulated oils. The findings suggest that encapsulating vegetable oils in PLA nanofibers reduces lipid dispersion in water while maintaining nutrient availability. This polymeric system offers a sustainable alternative to enhance aquaculture feed efficiency and reduce environmental impacts, contributing to cleaner water and healthier fish.