Patent ID: 8828432

Claim:
An encapsulated product comprising discrete, solid particles having a substantially uniform shape and a diameter of up to about 10 mm, wherein each particle comprises: a plasticized matrix material comprising a partially gelatinized starch in an amount of about 40% or more based on the weight of the final product, the plasticized matrix material comprising starch having substantially intact molecules, at least one component for controlling the rate of release of the encapsulant, at least one plasticizer comprising water, and an encapsulant in an amount of from about 1% to about 85% based upon the weight of the plasticized matrix material, the encapsulant dispersed throughout the plasticized matrix material and comprising at least one pharmaceutical component, neutraceutical component, nutritional component, fragrance component, or biologically active component, wherein the encapsulant and plasticized matrix material form an at least substantially homogenous mixture.