Solubilization patterns of lutein and lutein esters in food grade nonionic microemulsions

Lutein, a naturally occurring carotenoid, is widely distributed in fruits and vegetables and is particularly concentrated in the Tagetes erecta flower. Epidemiological studies suggest that a high lutein intake (6 mg/day) increases serum levels that are associated with a lower risk of cataract and age-related macular degeneration. Lutein can either be free or esterified (myristate, palmitate, or stearate). Both are practically insoluble in aqueous systems, and their solubility in food grade solvents (oils) is very limited, resulting is low bioavailability. To improve its solubility and bioavailability, lutein was solubilized in U-type food grade microemulsions based on ethoxylated sorbitan fatty acid esters, glycerol, R-(+)-limonene, and ethanol. Some of the main findings are as follows: (1) reverse micellar and W/O compositions solubilized both luteins better than an O/W microemulsion, and maximum solubilization is obtained within the bicontinuous phase; (2) free lutein is solubilized better than the esterified one, in the W/O microemulsions, whereas the esterified lutein is better accommodated within the O/W microemulsion; (3) vegetable oils decrease the solubilization of free lutein; (4) glycerol and alcohol enhance the solubilization of both luteins; (5) solubilization is surfactant-dependent in all mesophase structures, but its strongest effect is in the bicontinuous phase.