Exploring Pickering Emulsions Stabilized by Chitosan and Multiple Seaweed Polyphenols for an Efficient Protection and Delivery of β-Carotene

Abstract

This study explored Pickering emulsions stabilized by chitosan (CS), chitosan-Laminaria japonica polyphenols (CP), and chitosan-Ascophyllum nodosum polyphenols (CB) as β-carotene delivery systems. Emulsion stability was analyzed using multiple light scattering and cryogenic-scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM). This research also focused on the effects of thermal treatment, ultraviolet irradiation, in vitro digestion, and 8-week storage on the chemical stability of encapsulated β-carotene. The results showed that polyphenols of CP and CB contributed to the generation of a stable three-dimensional (3D) network, providing stronger resistance and higher β-carotene stability against thermal treatment and ultraviolet irradiation. After in vitro digestion, all emulsions exhibited higher bioaccessibility than unencapsulated β-carotene. CP stored at low temperatures and in the dark possessed the highest β-carotene retention and lowest lipid oxidation without microbial growth. This study demonstrates the potential of chitosan-seaweed polyphenol-stabilized Pickering emulsions for the creation of hydrophobic bioactive compound delivery systems in the functional foods and nutraceuticals industries.