Polysaccharide‐Based Nanoparticles as Pickering Emulsifiers in Emulsion Formulations and Heterogenous Polymerization Systems

Bio‐based Pickering emulsifiers are a nontoxic alternative to surfactants in emulsion formulations and heterogenous polymerizations. Recent demand for biocompatible and sustainable formulations has accelerated academic interest in polysaccharide‐based nanoparticles as Pickering emulsifiers. Despite the environmental advantages, the inherent hydrophilicity of polysaccharides and their nanoparticles limits efficiency and application range. Modification of the polysaccharide surface is often required in the development of ultrastable, functional, and water‐in‐oil (W/O) systems. Complex surface modification calls into question the sustainability of polysaccharide‐based nanoparticles and is identified as a significant barrier to commercialization. This review summarizes the use of nanocelluloses, ‐starches, and ‐chitins as Pickering emulsifiers, highlights trends and best practices in surface modification, and provides recommendations to expedite commercialization. Surface modification is, by large, a prerequisite in the development of polysaccharide‐based Pickering emulsifiers. In summarizing the use of nanocelluloses, ‐starches, and ‐chitins as Pickering emulsifiers, sustainable modification strategies are highlighted. This review aims to inform future research to ensure that the environmental benefits of polysaccharide‐based Pickering emulsifiers, in both emulsion formulations and heterogenous polymerizations, are fully realized.