Chapter 10: Routes of Anthocyanin Delivery and Suitable Systems for Targeted Release

Anthocyanins (ACNs) have been associated with many health-promoting benefits; however, there is a considerable gap between the results from laboratory studies and clinical practice. Research has indicated that controlled release systems for ACN delivery may have a significant effect on bioavailability and related health benefits. Thus, in this chapter, we provide a discussion of the routes of absorption and suitable forms of delivery systems that can be targeted towards anthocyanin delivery. ACN delivery by confectionery-based systems and topical gels are controlled release systems that have been studied, where absorption through the oral cavity has been exploited. Proposed systems for targeted ACN delivery in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract include in situ gelling systems and floating microspheres. Gastroretentive systems (GRS) are attractive as targeted delivery into the GI tract may reduce their degradation in vivo; however, they have associated challenges, the most prominent being the gastric contractions, which aid digestion. As existing GRS systems have been developed for pharmaceutical applications, GRS for targeted nutrient delivery are an attractive prospect. In the future, the development of GRS-related food and beverage products holds much potential, although this would require additional sensory and stability evaluation.