Deciphering the importance of nanoencapsulation to improve the availability of bioactive molecules in food sources to the human body

Food Chem. 2025 Feb 1;464(Pt 3):141762. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141762. Epub 2024 Oct 24.

Abstract

Various bodily functions are maintained, and health benefits are provided by food-derived bioactive components. Fruits and vegetables contain numerous beneficial components, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients. However, the body's ability to absorb these substances at a given rate and degree frequently limits their bioavailability. If food-derived bio actives are used as therapeutic or dietary interventions, this limitation can result in low efficacy and suboptimal results. Recently, nanotechnology has been a useful method for increasing the bioavailability of bioactive compounds produced from food. Active ingredients can be delivered and absorbed more efficiently with the help of nanotechnology. By altering their size or surface properties, bioactive components can be made more soluble, permeable, and bioavailable through nanotechnology. The present review will provide an overview of the various bioactive components, the application of nanotechnology to improve the availability of bioactive molecules to humans and animals, and the challenges and safety concerns associated with nanotechnology in the production of food-derived bioactive molecules.

Keywords: Bioactive compounds; Bioavailability; Emulsification; Encapsulation; Nanoparticles.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Availability*
  • Drug Compounding
  • Fruit / chemistry
  • Fruit / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Nanotechnology*
  • Vegetables / chemistry
  • Vegetables / metabolism