Nanoencapsulation and delivery of bioactive ingredients using zein nanocarriers: approaches, characterization, applications, and perspectives

Zein has garnered widespread attention as a versatile material for nanosized delivery systems due to its unique self-assembly properties, amphiphilicity, and biocompatibility characteristics. This review provides an overview of current approaches, characterizations, applications, and perspectives of nanoencapsulation and delivery of bioactive ingredients within zein-based nanocarriers. Various nanoencapsulation strategies for bioactive ingredients using various types of zein-based nanocarrier structures, including nanoparticles, nanofibers, nanoemulsions, and nanogels, are discussed in detail. Factors affecting the stability of zein nanocarriers and characterization methods of bioactive-loaded zein nanocarrier structures are highlighted. Additionally, current applications of zein nanocarriers loaded with bioactive ingredients are summarized. This review will serve as a guide for the selection of appropriate nanoencapsulation techniques within zein nanocarriers and a comprehensive understanding of zein-based nanocarriers for specific applications in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agricultural industries.