nanoencapsulated

Nanoencapsulated refers to active ingredients that are enclosed within nanoscale carriers to form nanoencapsulated systems. These systems typically range in size from about 1 to a few hundred nanometers. The aim is to protect sensitive payloads, improve solubility and stability, enable controlled or targeted release, and enhance bioavailability or functional performance in various applications.

Common carrier types include polymeric nanoparticles (such as PLGA, chitosan, and alginate), lipid-based systems like liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions. Inorganic nanoparticles may be used in some sensing or imaging contexts but are less common as primary encapsulation carriers. Carrier material and design are chosen to match the chemical properties of the payload and the desired release profile, as well as biocompatibility and safety considerations.

Key methods for creating nanoencapsulated systems include nanoprecipitation, emulsification-solvent evaporation, solvent diffusion, coacervation, self-assembly, and layer-by-layer deposition. Surface modification can enable targeting, improve stability, or influence release kinetics.

Applications span pharmaceuticals and drug delivery, nutraceuticals and functional foods, cosmetics and personal care, agrichemicals and plant protection, and delivery of flavors or fragrances in foods. Benefits generally include increased stability of labile compounds, improved solubility for poorly soluble substances, sustained or targeted release, and reduced dosing frequency or toxicity.

Challenges involve safety and regulatory considerations for nanoscale materials, potential toxicity and biodistribution concerns, scalability and reproducibility, cost, and environmental impact. Comprehensive characterization—particle size distribution, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and release kinetics—is essential for development and evaluation.