Gels are formed based on generally recognized as safe (GRAS) low molecular weight amphiphilic molecules in a self-assembly process with limited or no heating. A selective range of ratios between an organic solvent and water, or an aqueous solution, in the medium, allows for the GRAS low molecular weight amphiphiles to form a homogeneous self-supporting gel encapsulating agents to be delivered under very mild conditions. Proteins including enzymes, antibodies, and serum albumin are loaded in the self-assembled gels to provide sustained and/or responsive delivery. The encapsulated proteins retain at least 70%, 80%, or 90% of their activity over days in various storage conditions.
