Starch Nanoparticles and Nanocrystals as Bioactive Molecule Carriers

Abstract

Starch nanoparticles and nanocrystals are small materials with high surface-to-volume ratio, which allows them to pass through biological barriers and encapsulate different types of bioactive molecules. Due to their biocompability, wide array of natural sources and its ease modification through physical, chemical and enzymatic methods, starch nanomaterials have generated a great interest in the food, agricultural, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. In recent year, research into nanoencapsulation of bioactive molecules in starch nanomaterials and their application in different agri-food fields has grown substantially. The objective of this chapter was to review and analyze the different advances in this research area.