Development of novel bioactives delivery systems by micro/nanotechnology

• Selection of the emulsifier system is important for encapsulating bioactives.
• Industrial applications of delivery systems depend on their bioavailability.
• Combinations of chitosan and nanoclay resulted in higher water vapor permeability.
• Antioxidant/antimicrobial activities of peptides were kept upon encapsulation.
• Active principles of a drug can be efficiently encapsulated using polymers.

In this review we present recent trends on the encapsulation of bioactive compounds, their increased availability and stability, focusing on novel applications as delivery systems. We also provide insights on the latest advances in formulation and stabilization of micro-/nano-dispersions, monodisperse emulsions with droplets sized within the micrometer to sub-micrometer range, nanoemulsions, microcapsules and nanoparticles, foreseeing the delivery of bioactives with different characteristics and their potential applications into foods, pharmaceuticals and other related industries. The maintenance of the antimicrobial or antioxidant properties of peptides micro/nano-encapsulated is fundamental to prospect the stability in different conditions of the food matrix. Because astaxanthin is easily altered in the presence of light, oxygen or high temperatures, it is important to define adequate procedures or formulations that preserve the quality of carotenoid enriched extracts against their oxidation.

Schematic representation of major strategies involved on the development of bioactives delivery systems.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide