Co-encapsulated microcapsules containing three lipophilic bioactive components (LBCs) including fish oil, phytosterols and limonene were studied and compared with those containing only fish oil. Milk proteins (whey protein isolate and sodium caseinate in a ratio of 4:1) were used as wall materials. Results show that good quality microcapsules can be obtained at inlet temperature of 170 degrees C and outlet temperature of 70 degrees C, with the wall to core ratio of 4:1. There was no significant different (p > 0.05) in the microencapsulation efficiency and the oxidation indicators (PV and AV) after the accelerated storage for both types of microcapsules. However, the retention of EPA and DHA in the LBCs-microcapsules was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the fish oil microcapsules. The phytosterols content was unchanged but loss of limonene occurred after storage. The LBCs-microcapsules had better flavor/odour profile than the fish oil microcapsules after drying and storage. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.