Impact of Nanotechnology on Extraction and Application of Carotene and Anthocyanin-Based Natural Colorants

This chapter deals with introducing natural colorants based on anthocyanins and carotenoids, as well as how nanotechnology enhances their extraction, stability, and textile-related applications. Due to the negative environmental impacts of synthetic dyes and some endearing characteristics of natural colorants, these types of dyes have attracted a lot of attention. While a variety of red, purple, and blue shades can be obtained by anthocyanins, carotenoids are mainly responsible for red, orange, and yellow colors in nature. Despite all benefits of these natural colorants, their utilization in textiles is challenging. Recent advances in nanotechnology enable an effective extraction and stabilization of these colorants. The incorporation of nanomaterials such as metal–organic frameworks (MOF), nanofibers, and nanocapsules can facilitate in creating a wider application of anthocyanin and carotenoids in the textile industry. In conclusion, nanotechnology enables a performance improvement of natural dyes to extend their application to develop biomedical, functional, eco-friendly and sustainable textile products.