This study developed a novel triple hybrid stabilization system combining
minimal PGPR, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and beeswax (BW) to
overcome the inherent physical instability of W/O high internal phase
emulsions (HIPEs). W/O HIPEs with a 75% internal phase were prepared using
PGPR alone, PGPR+HPMC, PGPR+BW, and PGPR+HPMC+BW combinations, and their
stability was comparatively analyzed. Synergistic effects among these
components were evaluated through rheological measurements, microstructure
analysis using CLSM, and centrifugal stability testing. Results showed that
the PGPR-only system exhibited significant phase separation within 24 hours
and low stability. The dual systems, PGPR+HPMC or PGPR+BW, demonstrated
improved stability compared to the single system, but some droplet
coalescence was still observed during high-speed centrifugation. Conversely,
the triple system (PGPR+HPMC+BW) using all three components exhibited the
highest stability, showing significantly enhanced storage modulus (G') and
yield stress compared to the dual systems. CLSM analysis supported the
proposed triple stabilization mechanism, where HPMC reinforces the interface
from within the aqueous phase, and the BW crystal network forms in the oil
phase to physically anchor the reinforced droplets. This triple system
exhibited high resistance, maintaining most of its structure even under
high-speed centrifugation. In conclusion, the synergistic combination of an
HPMC-reinforced internal phase and the BW oleogel network is an effective
strategy for producing food-grade W/O HIPEs with enhanced stability, which
can be widely applied in the development of low-calorie fat substitutes and
functional substance delivery systems.