Innovation and Impact

This project will deliver extensive fundamental scientific knowledge on the bioaccessibility of zeaxanthin, an important contributor to eye and brain health and function. It will contribute to (a) understanding of the complex interactions between, on one hand, the type of carotenoid (free esterified), the type of lipid, and the type of delivery system (nanoemulsions); (b) providing data on the stability, bioaccessibility and cellular uptake of zeaxanthin. In consequence, we will be able to identify the optimal conditions for ensuring superior stability and bioaccessibility of Zea. Depending on the results obtained, we might provide improved formulations for natural Zea/ZeaDP to be used as targeted food ingredients or food supplements (elderly, infants).

Social impact

Considering the fact that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the world’s leading cause of blindness among the elderly, currently affecting 196 million people (estimated 288 million in 2040), as well as the lack of effective treatment or prevention strategies for the dry form, improving the daily intake of Zea is of high interest. Carotenoid rich food and food supplements are directly consumed by humans and they represent valuable alternatives to synthetic products. By disseminating the obtained results through scientific papers as well as by social media tools, we will provide the society with scientific-based proof that may contribute to persuading people to make healthier food choices, which in turn would result in increased quality of life and substantial health effects.