Spray-dried encapsulated milkfat powders were prepared from stable emu
lsions containing 40-60% milkfat and carbohydrate matrices. Moisture c
ontent of the spray-dried powders varied from 1-4%. Lowest free fat co
ntent (< 10%) was found in powders with 40% fat, encapsulated in sucro
se. Angles of repose ranged from 37 to 46 degrees, and correlated with
powder flow (p = 0.01). Bulk density was dependent on the encapsulant
and declined with increasing fat content. Product density did not inf
luence powder recovery through the cyclone of the dryer. Particle size
distribution ranged from 20 to 120 mu m with 80% of the particles < 1
00 mu m. Powders with best physical properties were made with 40-50% b
utteroil encapsulated in sucrose.