The present invention describes compositions and methods containing
water-dispersible phytosterol esters useful in the reduction of serum
cholesterol when consumed as part of a heart healthy diet. The
compositions and methods can be used to incorporate phytosterol esters
into aqueous based dry foods and beverages that are extracted or
reconstituted with hot water. The composition comprises a mixture of
phytosterol esters, a surfactant and optionally an oil soluble
antioxidant and needs no prior emulsification, homogenization or drying
to render the phytosterol esters water dispersible in the recommended
food applications.
