Encapsulated forms of biologically active substances – possible risks of their use

Abstract

This contribution deals with food supplements preparations supplying human body with biologically active substances. In accordance with European legislation, food supplements are classified as foodstuffs. Encapsulation is a process of covering substances into hollow mostly gelatine capsules (capsulae gelatinosae, cpsg) of various shape, size, and consistency that serve as edible casings, which means that their application provides undoubtedly many benefits. However, there are also some materials that cannot be encased. An encasing method able to encapsulate any existing material has not been developed yet. The submitted work explores different safety aspects of encapsulated forms of biologically active substances and possible risks arising from their application. The study focuses especially on stability of the capsule fillings, compatibility of their content with hydrogel walls and it also concentrates on the properties and safety of encapsulation media during their use. Based on acquired findings, the authors expressed general conclusions that have to be implemented during encapsulation of biologically active substances. If specified conditions are observed, the encapsulated forms of food can be considered satisfactorily safe and the risks resulting from their use might be regarded minimal compared with the risks originating from the application of many other forms of biologically active substances.