Elderberry-Based Multifunctional Prebiotic Systems Prepared via Spray Drying

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is recognized as a rich source of anthocyanins and other bioactives with antioxidant and antidiabetic potential, and is increasingly explored as a functional ingredient in nutraceuticals. However, cultivar-dependent variability can strongly influence chemical composition and bioactivity, underscoring the need for careful selection of plant material prior to formulation. In the present study, twelve genotypes of elderberry were compared in terms of total polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and antiglycation potential. Based on the overall profile, ‘Samyl 1’ was advanced to formulation trials. Spray-dried carrier systems were produced using galactooligosaccharides (GOS) or chitooligosaccharides (COS), with or without colloidal silica. GOS-based powders retained anthocyanins at levels approaching theoretical values and exhibited superior thermal stability, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and degradation-kinetic modeling, whereas COS matrices provided less effective stabilization. Incorporation of silica significantly enhanced technological properties, improving recovery, reducing agglomeration, and increasing flowability, without compromising anthocyanin content. All powders displayed low moisture (2.5–7.1%), favorable morphology, and preserved functional activity, aligning with stability requirements for shelf-stable plant extracts. Overall, the study demonstrates that strategic cultivar selection combined with GOS–silica carrier systems enables the production of stable elderberry powders that maintain high anthocyanin content and bioactivity. Such multifunctional ingredients couple prebiotic functionality with efficient delivery of polyphenols, highlighting their potential in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations.