Construction of lipid-biomacromolecular compounds for loading and delivery of carotenoids: Preparation methods, structural properties, and absorption-enhancing mechanisms

Abstract

Due to the unstable chemical properties and poor water solubility of carotenoids, their processing adaptation and oral bioavailability are poor, limiting their application in hydrophilic food systems. Lipid-biomacromolecular compounds can be excellent carriers for carotenoid delivery by taking full advantage of the solubilization of lipids to non-polar nutrients and the water dispersion and gastrointestinal controlled release properties of biomacromolecules. This paper reviewed the research progress of lipid-biomacromolecular compounds as encapsulation and delivery carriers of carotenoids and summarized the material selection and preparation methods for biomacromolecular compounds. By considering the interaction between the two, this paper briefly discussed the effect of these compounds on carotenoid water solubility, stability, and bioavailability, emphasizing their delivery effect on carotenoids. Finally, various challenges and future trends of lipid-biomacromolecular compounds as carotenoid delivery carriers were discussed, providing new insight into efficient loading and delivery of carotenoids.

Graphical abstract

Keywords:

• Carotenoids
• proteins
• nano emulsion
• polysaccharides
• self-assembly
• controlled release
• non-covalent interaction
• intestinal epithelium

Disclosure statement

We declare that we do not have any commercial or associative interest that represents a conflict of interest in connection with this manuscript. We have no financial and personal relationships with other people or organizations that can inappropriately influence our work.

Additional information

Funding

The present work was supported by Fujian Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars (2020J06024) and Jimei University Young Talent Program (ZR2020001).