This study explores the use of innovative polysaccharides derived from deep sea bacteria for the development of macro and microgels, aiming at the encapsulation of lactic acid bacteria (LABs). LABs and their metabolites such as bacteriocins are useful for the biopreservation of food to inhibit the growth of pathogens. Encapsulation of LABs or their antimicrobial peptides inside matrices may improve their stability and viability in hostile environment while ensuring controlled release of antimicrobial compounds.

Unique polysaccharides with novel chemical structures were identified and isolated from deep sea bacteria. Their anionic nature gives them innovative physico-chemical and biological properties. We obtained macro and microgels by ionic cross-linking in the presence of divalent cations through extrusion and emulsification (microfluidics) methods, respectively. Polysaccharide-based matrices were then used to encapsulate either Carnobacterium divergens, a LAB inhibiting Listeria monocytogenes and used as bioprotective strains for seafood products, or nisin, an antimicrobial peptide produced by Lactococcus lactis. Promising results were obtained for applications in food biopreservation and probiotic delivery systems for health benefits.