Abstract
Natural
phytochemical carotenoids, pivotal for human health, enhance wellness, prevent
malfunctions, and exhibit anti-aging properties. Lycopene, distinguished by
exceptional antioxidant properties, offers protection against oxidative stress.
Studied extensively for its potential in medical interventions, it mitigates
the risk of diseases like arteriosclerosis and breast cancer. However,
lycopene's high antioxidant activity makes it prone to degradation from factors
like oxygen and light, impacting processing and storage. Its water and ethanol
insolubility contribute to poor bioavailability. Encapsulation technology
addresses these challenges, gaining interest for health benefits in functional
foods and cosmeceutical products. The process of lycopene encapsulation,
with a specific focus on the selection of diverse wall materials, has
demonstrated a substantial impact on both the physical and functional
attributes of the encapsulated lycopene within natural biomaterials employed
for biomedicine. Natural polymers assume a crucial role in the advancement of
biomedicine, nutraceuticals, and the functional food industry, particularly in
the encapsulation of natural active compounds such as lycopene. Consequently,
there is a discernible trend towards the extensive utilization of natural
polymers. The choice of a suitable wall material is of paramount importance as
it significantly determines the efficacy and success of the encapsulation
process. The utilization of natural polymer wall materials presents potential
strategies for health-effective lycopene encapsulation. This approach provides
a comprehensive overview of lycopene encapsulation, specifically focusing on
polysaccharides and proteins, including oligosaccharides and cyclodextrin. The
incorporation of these natural polymers in lycopene encapsulation enhances the
bioavailability and stability of lycopene, rendering it suitable for diverse
biomedical and nutritional applications.
Keywords: Lycopene, Natural Polymer, Encapsulation,
Inclusion, Complex