Nano-encapsulation of Bioactive Compounds: a diminutive review

Author(s) : Muhammad Bahadur Ali, Shamas Murtaza, Muhammad Shahbaz, Shazia Ramzan and Muhammad Majid Ali

Abstract:

Bioactive compounds are non-nutritive and functional nutrients of food commodities. They play a vital role in human health and reduce the chances of chronic diseases including cancer. Plants, animals and microbes are all source of different bioactive compounds. The conversion of macro particles in small particles to nano-meter is termed as nanotechnology. Encapsulation is the process of covering the active ingredient in protective core and the process at nano level is termed as nano-encapsulation. The active material is made safe from outer environmental threats and the bioactivity of bioactive compounds is extended. Emulsification, coacervation, nano-precipitation and emulsification-solvent evaporation techniques are important techniques to achieve nano-encapsulation. Nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds may also decrease the degradation and improves solubility and availability of bioactive compounds. Techniques for encapsulation may be develop keeping in view their biosafety issues. Efficiency of nano-encapsulation may depend upon the choice of best technique for encapsulation. Different techniques for encapsulation have been discussed within this review.