In vitro digestion-assisted development of a β-cryptoxanthin-rich functional beverage; in vivo validation using systemic response and faecal content.

Bioavailability of carotenoids is low and significant amounts reach the colon where they may be biologically active. We aimed to optimize a previously developed beverage designed to improve cardiovascular and bone remodelling markers in post-menopausal women. By assessing different lipid emulsions (soy lecithin, milkfat globule membrane (MFGM) and olive oil) on the in vitro bioaccessibility of β-Cryptoxanthin and phytosterols, a MFGM containing beverage was selected and resulted stable over time (recovery >95%) under in vitro digestion and simulated anaerobic conditions. This beverage was tested in a randomized human trial (n=38) by evaluating systemic response and the colonic availability of β-Cryptoxanthin. Consumption for six weeks provoked an increment in serum β-Cryptoxanthin of 38.9μg/dl (CI 95%; 31.0, 46.8; p<0.001). In faeces, free β-Cryptoxanthin, tentatively identified β-Cryptoxanthin esters and the ratio cis-/trans-β-carotene approached the profile in the beverage and after in vitro digestion but it was different from serum. In conclusion, in vitro digestion-assisted approach appears adequate to develop functional foods although in vivo validation should consider both systemic response and the availability at the colon.

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