Sustainable Supramolecular Extraction of Phytocomplexes from Microgreens and Their Eco-Loading in Nutriosomes: Physicochemical Characterization, Stability, and In Vitro Release Behavior

Vucetic A.;Rached R. A.;Manca M. L.;Sovljanski O.;Cvetkovic D.;Manconi M.;Canadanovic-Brunet J.

2025-01-01

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Abstract

This study reports a dual green strategy for obtaining and stabilizing phytocomplexes from Sango radish and kale microgreens. Phytochemicals were isolated through supramolecular extraction, which generated an upper amphiphilic phase and a lower aqueous phase, enabling the recovery of both hydrophilic and lipophilic molecules without toxic solvents. The resulting phytocomplexes were encapsulated in nutriosomes, phospholipid vesicles enriched with the soluble dextrin Nutriose (R) FM06, and compared with conventional liposomes. The vesicles displayed mean diameters <= 110 nm, polydispersity indices < 0.11, and zeta potentials around -40 mV. Retention of antioxidant activity reached up to 99%. Freeze-dried formulations maintained acceptable physicochemical properties and microbiological safety, while storage studies confirmed stability over six months. In vitro release tests showed a gradual release of phenolics and carotenoids, and simulated digestion experiments indicated that nutriosomes preserved up to 20% more antioxidant capacity than liposomes in the intestinal phase. These results demonstrate an environmentally responsible strategy to prepare phytocomplex-rich vesicles with improved stability and bioaccessibility. Further biological and in vivo studies are needed to substantiate potential nutritional or health-related benefits.