Advances in Food Science, Processing and Technology

Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals

Functional foods and nutraceuticals are transforming dietary habits by offering health benefits beyond basic nutrition. These include fortified products, probiotics, prebiotics, and bioactive compounds that can support immunity, digestion, heart health, and cognitive performance. Advances in biotechnology and food formulation have enabled the incorporation of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytochemicals into a wide variety of everyday foods and beverages. Personalized nutrition, driven by genomics and microbiome analysis, is guiding the development of tailored functional products to meet individual health needs. Encapsulation technologies ensure the stability and bioavailability of active ingredients, while taste-masking and food matrix design enhance consumer acceptance. Regulatory clarity and scientific validation remain essential for market credibility. As awareness of preventive health rises globally, functional foods and nutraceuticals are poised to play a central role in addressing chronic diseases, aging populations, and wellness-conscious consumers.