The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of interactions between 1.00% w/w hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC) and the anionic surfactant sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) on the properties of 20% w/w sunflower oil/water emulsion and the corresponding microcapsules obtained by spray drying technique. On the basis of the viscosity and rheological measurements, particle size and particle size distribution, and stability assessment, it was concluded that the emulsion characteristics depend strongly on the interaction mechanism. Significant increase in viscosity and non-Newtonian thixotropic behavior was observed in the SDS concentration range from 0.15 to 1.00% w/v, corresponding to HPMC-SDS interactions in the continuous phase. In the interaction region, a three-dimensional network is formed in the continuous phase by intermolecular binding of SDS molecules to the adjacent HPMC chains, which contributes to increase in the viscosity and thixotropic properties. The mean diameter of emulsion particles, d(vs), decreases with increase in SDS concentration, but emulsion stability depends on the adsorption layer structure, i.e. HPMC-SDS interactions. The HPMC/SDS complex adsorbed at the o/w interface makes the layer more compact, enhancing thus emulsion stability. Microcapsules, obtained in the form of powder by spray drying of emulsions, have good redispersibility in water, but their stability changes depending on the HPMC-SDS interaction mechanism, i.e., the HPMC/SDS complex forms a more compact layer that is resistant to breaking during the drying process. The highest encapsulation efficiency was found in the interaction region. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.