Characterization of aerogels as bioactive delivery vehicles produced through the valorization of yerba-mate (Illex paraguariensis)

The objective of this study was the valorization of yerba-mate through isolation of cellulose and nanocellulose, aiming for elaboration of bioactive aerogels containing yerba-mate based extract (YMBE). Cellulose and nanocellulose isolated from yerba-mate were evaluated in functional groups, crystallinity, morphology, and thermal properties. The bioactive aerogels were produced from cellulose and nanocellulose and used to encapsulate YMBE. The aerogels were analyzed by their morphology, functional groups, water absorption capacity and in vitro release in hydrophilic and hydrophobic food simulants. The nanocellulose presented rod-like morphology. The aerogels from yerba-mate cellulose and nanocellulose presented homogeneous structure with porosity and without separation of polymer phases. Both aerogels showed antioxidant activity higher than 80%, maintaining YMBE antioxidant activity. These bioactive aerogels are a promising matrix for YMBE incorporation. The aerogel from yerba-mate cellulose is more indicated for YMBE release in hydrophobic foods, while the aerogel from nanocellulose is indicated as the release matrix of YMBE for hydrophilic foods.