Tracing the Role of Bioactive Ingredients in Encapsulation Techniques for Sustainable Foods: A Bibliometric Analysis

This comprehensive study investigates the complex realm of encapsulation techniques and bioactive ingredients, particularly in the context of sustainable foods, through a detailed bibliometric analysis that captures the essence and evolution of research in this crucial field. We compiled a substantial dataset of 218 bibliographic records from the esteemed Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar databases using carefully chosen keywords. This meticulous process included analyzing the contributions of various authors and exploring intricate relationships among keywords, citation impact, country involvement, and influential journals. This analysis creates a detailed map of research progress, illuminating contemporary scientific trends, notable advancements, and significant gaps in existing knowledge. Current research efforts can be categorized into three interconnected areas: the examination of various encapsulation techniques and the physicochemical properties of wall materials that contain bioactive compounds; the investigation of innovative technologies that enhance encapsulation processes, such as nanotechnology and microencapsulation; and the growing research connecting sustainable food practices to better human health outcomes. With a forward‐thinking perspective, future research should focus on discovering novel encapsulation techniques and conducting in‐depth studies on wall materials that enhance bioavailability. This would unlock the potential benefits for human health and ultimately guide sustainable practices in the food industry.