Precision release systems of food bioactive compounds based on metal-organic frameworks: synthesis, mechanisms and recent applications

Controlled release (CR) systems have become a powerful platform for accurate and effective delivery of bioactive compounds (BCs). Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are one of the best BCs-loaded carriers for CR systems. In the review, the principles and methods of the design and synthesis of MOFs-CR systems are summarized in detail, the encapsulation of BCs by MOFs and CR mechanisms are explored, and their biological toxicity and biocompatibility are highlighted and applications in the food industry are discussed. In addition, current challenges in this field and possible future development directions are also presented. MOFs have been proven to encapsulate BCs effectively, including gaseous and solid molecules, and control the release of BCs through spontaneous diffusion or stimulus-response. The solubility, stability and biocompatibility of BCs encapsulated by MOFs are greatly improved, which expands their applications in foods. The effective CR of BCs by MOFs-CR systems is beneficial to assist in maintaining or even improving the quality and safety of food, reduce the BCs usage while increasing the bioavailability. Low- or non-biotoxic MOFs, especially bio-MOFs, show greater application prospects in the food industry.

Automated summary

Controlled release systems using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as carriers have shown great potential in effectively delivering bioactive compounds (BCs) with improved solubility, stability, and biocompatibility, expanding their applications in the food industry. Encapsulation of BCs by MOFs and control of their release have been successfully achieved, contributing to maintaining or enhancing the quality and safety of food while reducing BCs usage and increasing bioavailability. Low- or non-biotoxic MOFs, especially bio-MOFs, hold promising prospects for applications in the food industry.