Research Progress of Encapsulated Carotenoid Delivery Systems.

Carotenoids, mainly found in dark fruits and vegetables, have biological activity functions such as anti-inflam¬matory and antioxidant, can strengthen the human immune system, help fight off various viruses, including SARS-CoV2 and other viruses. It is also a natural food colorant and natural antioxidant, which play an important role in protecting human health and industrial development. The applications of carotenoids in food are hindered by its poor chemical insta-bility and low oral bioavailability. For this reason, delivery systems have been developed to solve the above problems. This review gave a briefly introduction to the metabolic process and influencing factors of bioavailability of carotenoids with special focuses on the research progress of carotenoid delivery systems which aimed to provide a reference for the functional application of carotenoids in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]