Advanced encapsulation technologies for functional foods: Enhancing stability, bioavailability, and controlled release of nutraceuticals and bioactives

Abstract

• Encapsulation improves bioactive stability during processing and storage. • Stimuli-responsive systems enable precise nutrient release in the gut. • Nano-encapsulation boosts absorption and health impact of ingredients. • Food applications include dairy, snacks, drinks, and confections. • Safety, regulation, and consumer trust shape industry adoption. Encapsulation technology has become a powerful tool in addressing key limitations of incorporating bioactives and nutraceuticals into functional foods. This review explores current advancements in encapsulation materials and methods that improve stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of health-promoting compounds. Both natural and synthetic encapsulants from traditional spray-dried systems to modern nano-encapsulation approaches