Lycopene: Isomerization Effects on Bioavailability and Bioactivity Properties

Lycopene cis-isomers have shown to be more bioavailable and bioactive than the naturally occurring all-trans-isomer. During food processing, lycopene undergoes geometrical isomerization, increasing the proportion of cis-isomers. However, lycopene tends to retro-isomerize during food storage. Because the stability, bioavailability, and distribution of lycopene isomers are physiochemical characteristics critical for health benefits, it is essential to preserve these properties in food products containing lycopene isomers. The objective of this article is to review thermal and nonthermal technologies available for lycopene geometrical isomerization with a focus on the stability, bioavailability, and bioactivity of lycopene isomers.