ABSTRACT
Nanoemulsions have emerged as a tool not only in medical and pharmaceutical industries but also in nutraceutical and food industries. These are able to encapsulate essential nutrients for maintaining a healthy immune system and good health. In nutraceutical and food industries, the nanoemulsion-based formulations are used to deliver lipophilic functional components such as vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), oil-soluble flavors, preservatives, conjugated linoleic acid, and probiotics. Nanoemulsions offer a number of potential advantages such as clarity, stability, and enhanced bioavailability of nutrients. They are also exploited as “smart foods,” wherein these contain nanotech sensors that are able to detect pathogens, toxins, and other chemicals, and help to detect food degradation. Presently, a number of researchers are involved in developing some novel formulations, known as “on-demand functional foods.” These foods are able to deliver the nutrients to cells when required, otherwise remain dormant in the body. This chapter summarizes current applications of nanoemulsions in nutraceutical and food industries, along with their formulation considerations, method of preparation, biological fate and toxic effects.
