Toxicity and Safety Aspects of Inulin
摘要
Inulin has gained considerable attention in academic circles due to its exceptional physicochemical properties and diverse range of biological activities, making it a highly promising and versatile biopolymer. This naturally occurring polysaccharide can be found in several plant sources, including chicory and dahlia. It finds extensive applications in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biotechnological industries for a variety of purposes. Of late, inulin has been utilized as an encapsulating agent in numerous drug formulations and bioactive preparations, thus enhancing their delivery properties. However, the safety and toxicity of inulin present significant concerns in the development of pharmaceutical products. Many studies have reported adverse effects associated with inulin usage. This chapter aims to provide a concise overview of the toxicity, safety, and various adverse effects linked to pharmaceutical products containing inulin. Considering that the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has recognized inulin as a safe ingredient within a specific dosage range, this chapter will focus on delineating the adverse events associated with different dosage levels. The reported adverse effects of inulin on various organs and tissues will be comprehensively discussed. By delving into the toxicity and safety aspects of inulin-based pharmaceutical products, this chapter will prove invaluable to researchers involved in inulin-based development, as it will help them navigate potential risks in diverse populations and anticipate long-term complications.