Development of a liquid nitrogen-assisted microencapsulation process based on whey protein isolate nanofibrils for enhancing the viability of Lactobacillus plantarum during freeze-drying

• Pre-encapsulation was achieved through electrostatic self-assembly. • Spherical microcapsules with intact structures were produced automatically. • Liquid nitrogen rapid freezing is key to maintaining an intact microstructure. • Probiotic viability in microcapsules was significantly enhanced. • Microencapsulated probiotics exhibit enhanced stress tolerance.