Biochemical activities of low molecular weight chitosans derived from squid pens

► LMW chitosans exhibited good bile acid binding capacity and antioxidant ability. ► The highest bile acid binding capacity of five LMW chitosans reached 63.53 mg/g. ► Increasing LMW chitosans concentration improved chelating effects and reducing power. ► EC50 value of LMW chitosans against hydroxyl radicals ranged from 0.93 to 3.66 mg/mL.