Structure-function relationships to guide rational design and fabrication of particulate food delivery systems

The rational design and fabrication of food-grade delivery systems can draw extensively from the knowledge gained through the development of drug delivery systems. This review provides a concise overview of particulate delivery systems and outlines current research trends linking their structural properties to their functionality, e.g., matrix compatibility, stability, release characteristics and bioavailability. The need to establish quantitative structure-function relationships (QSFR) between particle properties and delivery system functionality is highlighted for the efficient development of food-grade delivery systems in the future.