Technology Description: The invention relates to microscopic starch-based shells, or microcapsules. The microcapsules are formed by first processing starch and either a fat or oil in the presence of water in a steam-jet cooker, and then diluting the mixture with an excess of water. Microscopic starch shells, having a fat or oil core, rise to the surface. When a volatile fat or oil is used in the process, the core will evaporate, leaving empty shells that can be refilled with another agent that would not have survived the steam-jet cooking. The microcapsules disperse easily in water and can be used for a variety of purposes including lubricants, cosmetics, oil-based food flavorings, and for delivery of oil-soluble pharmaceuticals that are given either by injection or topically. Chemical modification of the starch shells would be possible for certain pharmaceutical and industrial applications. Reference: Please refer to USPN 6,669,962 (Docket #0056.01), "Starch Microcapsules for Delivery of Active Agents," which issued on December 30, 2003, and is a continuation of USPN 6,238,677 (Docket #0006.98), which issued on May 29, 2001.  Foreign rights are not available.  Inventors: George F. Fanta Biomaterials Processing Research Peoria, Illinois 61604 (309) 81-6356 / Fax: (309) 681-6691 fanta@mail.ncaur.usda.gov Frederick C. Felker (Same address as first inventor) (309) 681-6663 / Fax: (309) 681-6685 felkerfc@mail.ncaur.usda.gov Clarence A. Knutson Formerly with ARS) Kenneth Eskins (deceased)