Proteins as ideal encapsulation systems
Following the present trend to replace synthetic ingredients with natural ones, biopolymers are an interesting alternative to synthetic polymers used as micro and nano-encapsulation systems.
In particular, proteins are very promising as carriers of nutraceuticals due to several reasons. Proteins possess unique functional properties, such as their ability to bind hydrophobic molecules and interact with other biopolymers. Also proteins are used to stabilize emulsions and to form gels. Moreover, food proteins are widely used in formulated foods because they have high nutritional value and are generally recognized as safe
The different techniques developed to form capsules include the use of protein hydrogels, protein micro-particles and nano-particles as carriers of bioactive compounds. The efficiency of the encapsulation system depends on the type and state of the protein, among other factors.
