Chapter 11: Nanocrystal-based Systems

Many food-derived phytochemicals are highly hydrophobic materials that are in a crystalline state. Rather than dissolving them in organic fluids, it is possible to deliver these phytochemicals in the form of nanocrystals. Reducing the size of crystals increases their surface area and reactivity, which can lead to an appreciable increase in their bioaccessibility. Moreover, the crystalline forms of phytochemicals are typically more chemically stable than the soluble forms, which can lead to a higher amount being available in a bioactive form after ingestion. This chapter mainly discusses the formation, properties, and applications of nanocrystals as delivery systems for nutraceuticals and other bioactive molecules, and highlights their advantages and disadvantages.