The Role of Bio-based Excipients in the Formulation of Lipophilic Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals, and especially vitamins, are an integral part of food products and dietary supplements as they contribute to the health and well‐being of consumers. Formulation strategies are key to ensuring chemical stability, improved sensory properties, and the high bioavailability of these ingredients. Bio‐based raw materials such as carbohydrates, lipids, or plant proteins are functional ingredients used in such formulations. They stabilise emulsions by forming a protective matrix in which the lipophilic nutraceutical is entrapped. Pickering emulsions are highlighted as an alternative technology for the stabilisation of oil in water emulsions utilising bio‐based materials such as zein, cellulose, and cereal proteins. This chapter highlights the functionality of bio‐based excipients in formulations comprised of lipophilic nutraceuticals. Special focus is placed on industrially relevant microencapsulation technologies including emulsification used in combination with spray drying and fluid bed granulation, colloidal delivery vesicles, and the drying technologies being applied to deliver the final formulated product.