Chapter 2 - Application of nano/microencapsulated ingredients in milk and dairy products

Abstract

Milk and milk-based foods are nutrient-rich products consumed worldwide. Recently, the incorporation of the encapsulated bioactive food ingredients into milk and dairy foods, as a convenient way of delivery for such ingredients, has received considerable research attention, due to their potential contributions to human nutrition and health. This chapter reviews the opportunities and challenges of incorporation of encapsulated bioactive food ingredients into milk and dairy products. The evidence from the supplementation of these products with encapsulated bioactive compounds and protected bioactive live organisms has been discussed. Although a large body of evidence was found that indicates the possibility of using milk and dairy products as potential carriers for the delivery of bioactive ingredients, it appears that only a few studies have investigated such possibility in reasonable depth. Therefore, future research is required to answer the remaining questions including feasibility, safety, efficacy, and in-vivo bioavailability of the incorporated bioactive ingredients into dairy products.