Review demonstrates plant-derived byproduct carriers improve probiotic survival during gastrointestinal transit, highlighting their potential as functional food-grade delivery systems.
Key Points
To evaluate how plant-derived byproducts function as structural and protective matrix components in probiotic encapsulation systems using a composition–microstructure–function framework.
Reviewed plant byproducts (peels, pomaces, press cakes, and fiber streams) categorized by dominant fractions, including soluble polysaccharides, insoluble fibers, resistant starch, phenolics, and proteins.
Synthesized evidence using a composition–microstructure–function framework to assess how byproduct composition and processing influence probiotic survival during storage and gastrointestinal transit.
Byproduct-mediated probiotic protection varies widely across storage and digestive conditions, correlating closely with matrix swelling, particle morphology, and water activity.
Commercial translation remains constrained by raw feedstock variability, inconsistent reporting standards, lack of matched comparators, and sensory or regulatory challenges.