Application of legume-based materials in encapsulation technology: A review

Abstract

There has been an increasing global trend for encapsulation of food and pharmaceutical products because of potential roles of this technology in preservation of active ingredients against harsh environments. The food industry ranked after drug sector in the field of encapsulation based on vastness. The delicate bioactive substances are encapsulated using a variety of wall materials. This review article discusses the applications of legume-based materials for applications in encapsulation technology. The traditional and modern encapsulating techniques are listed. Legume flour, proteins, and starch are effective transporters for the unstable and highly reactive components. Besides physical, biochemical, and chemical modifications of legume-based proteins and their combinations with polysaccharides are  the advanced stages of research. Some functional features of legume proteins have been enhanced by various modifications and combinations with polysaccharides. As a consequence, significant effectiveness has been achieved in encapsulation efficiency. Few active core materials produced from legumes have been effectively enclosed with other wall materials. Furthermore, encapsulated products containing legume wall material have been shown to demonstrate controlled release and increased bioavailability of bioactive components. More research investigations are required to study the health implications of both short-term and long-term consumption of these encapsulated products. Legume-based materials (flour, protein, and starch) possess suitable physical and chemical properties and, as such, offer great potential for commercial use in encapsulation technology.