Encapsulated essential oils: A perspective in food preservation

Abstract

Essential oils are highly demanded in recent decades due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, protecting food from spoilage. However, their incorporation into low-fat foods is a challenge due to their hydrophobic nature, strong aroma, and flavor. Encapsulation is an effective approach to overcome these drawbacks. This review addresses currently investigated techniques for encapsulating essential oils. The use of emulsion-based delivery systems was developed in combination with encapsulation processes for lipophilic ingredients dispersed in aqueous media. Several techniques used in preparing emulsions are reported, and unlike conventional methods, membrane emulsification has emerged as a potential tool for designing new emulsified products. The main characteristics of essential oils and their applications in the food industry are also emphasized, and future research opportunities are highlighted.

Keywords

• Natural antimicrobials
• microcapsules
• low-fat foods
• food systems
• hydrophobic compounds