Food-grade polymers: A new vision in the controlled release of bioactive substances

Abstract

Food-grade polymers are largely employed in food industry for a variety of purposes, including food preservation, texture modification and food packaging. They are considered safe for human consumption and are approved by regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA. One of the most common uses of food-grade polymers is in food packaging. They are used to create packaging materials that are resistant to moisture, oxygen and to prevent contamination. Food- grade polymers are also used in the formulation of dietary supplements, fortified foods, and modified-release pharmaceuticals. They help improve the stability, shelf life and bioavailability of active ingredients. For example, specific polymers can be tailored to create controlled-release formulations, in which the active ingredient is released gradually over time, resulting in a more consistent and prolonged effect. In addition, food-grade polymers can be used to improve the texture and appearance of dietary supplements and oral pharmaceutical forms, mask unpleasant tastes and odors and making them more palatable to consumers. This paper overviews the application of food-grade polymers in the preparation of modified and targeted delivery systems for drugs and nutraceutical ingredients.