Choosing the right delivery systems for functional ingredients in foods An industrial perspective

The term delivery systems cover a wide range of structuring, encapsulation or formulation technologies for the delivery of a certain functional ingredient in a product to the end user. From addressing colour and taste to physical stability, delivery systems have been pursued by many. Despite enormous research and development efforts, however, delivery systems beyond the standard spray-dried powders and emulsion systems are not widely used in food and beverages. Delivery systems are often difficult to utilise in practice because of incomplete compatibility with the end product, high costs or consumer acceptance. This article provides some industrial insights in selection, design and application of delivery systems in food production.