Food protein-based materials as nutraceutical delivery systems

Incorporation of bioactive compounds–such as vitamins, probiotics, bioactive peptides, and antioxidants etc.–into food systems provide a simple way to develop novel functional foods that may have physiological benefits or reduce the risks of diseases. As a vital macronutrient in food, proteins possess unique functional properties including their ability to form gels and emulsions, which allow them to be an ideal material for the encapsulation of bioactive compounds. Based on the knowledge of protein physical–chemistry properties, this review describes the potential role of food proteins as substrate for the development of nutraceutical delivery systems in the form of hydrogel, micro-, or nano- particles. Applications of these food protein matrices to protect and delivery-sensitive nutraceutical compounds are illustrated, and the impacts of particle size on release properties are emphasized.