Modified Tuber Starches as Sustainable Biopolymers for the Encapsulating Bioactive Compounds: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Food Science and Technology
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Modified tuber starches are increasingly recognized as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic polymers for encapsulating bioactive compounds.
• Their inherent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and adaptable functionalities make them highly desirable materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of various modification methods (physical, chemical, biochemical) on tuber starch properties.
• To assess the potential of modified tuber starches as coating materials in diverse encapsulation techniques.
• To identify challenges and future research directions for industrial implementation.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review analyzing studies on modified tuber starches.
• Evaluation of property changes (composition, morphology, rheology, thermal, techno-functional) post-modification.
• Assessment of encapsulation techniques including spray drying, freeze-drying, electrospinning, and emulsification.

Main Results:

• Modified tuber starches demonstrate reduced retrogradation, enhanced thermal stability, improved solubility, and better digestibility.
• These properties facilitate their use as effective protective agents for bioactive compounds.
• Key challenges include process standardization, scalability, and regulatory clarity.

Conclusions:

• Modified tuber starches present significant advantages for encapsulation, offering safer and more sustainable solutions.
• Future research should focus on clean-label methods and underutilized tuber sources.
• Optimization is needed for broader industrial adoption in the food sector.