Highly branched cyclic dextrin (HBCD), a unique polysaccharide derived from starch via enzymatic modification (CAS No.: 10038-94-9, though specific grades may vary), is valued for its exceptional solubility, low viscosity, high molecular weight, and ability to form inclusion complexes. Its applications span multiple industries, primarily leveraging its functional properties as a stabilizer, encapsulant, energy source, or delivery system:
Energy Drinks/Gels: Serves as a rapid and sustained energy source due to its fast absorption (via passive diffusion in the small intestine) and low osmolality, avoiding gastrointestinal discomfort during high-intensity exercise.
Protein Powders & Meal Replacements: Improves solubility, reduces clumping, and enhances the stability of proteins (e.g., whey, casein) and fat-soluble nutrients (e.g., vitamins, omega-3s) in aqueous formulations.
Weight Management Products: Acts as a low-glycemic index (GI) carbohydrate, promoting satiety and steady blood glucose levels.
Drug Delivery Systems: Forms inclusion complexes with lipophilic drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, curcumin) to improve their solubility, bioavailability, and stability, reducing side effects and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
Vaccine & Biologic Stabilization: Protects sensitive biomolecules (e.g., antigens, enzymes) from denaturation during storage or processing, extending shelf life and maintaining biological activity.
Medical Nutrition: Used in enteral nutrition formulas for patients with impaired digestion or metabolic disorders, providing easily absorbable energy without causing bloating.
Beverages (Non-Alcoholic/Alcoholic): Stabilizes flavor compounds, pigments, and probiotics, preventing degradation or precipitation. Reduces ethanol-induced irritation in alcoholic drinks by encapsulating alcohol molecules.
Confections & Bakery: Enhances texture, prolongs freshness, and prevents crystallization of sugars (e.g., in candies, cakes, and bread). Encapsulates volatile flavors (e.g., mint, citrus) to retain aroma.
Dairy Products: Improves the stability of emulsions (e.g., milkshakes, ice cream) and protects probiotics from stomach acid, ensuring viable counts reach the intestines.
Skincare Formulations: Encapsulates active ingredients (e.g., retinol, vitamin C, essential oils) to control release, reduce irritation, and enhance skin penetration. Improves the stability of light-sensitive compounds against oxidation and UV degradation.
Hair Care Products: Acts as a film-forming agent, enhancing hair moisture retention, shine, and manageability. Stabilizes fragrances and active ingredients (e.g., anti-dandruff agents) in shampoos and conditioners.
Animal Feed: Provides a high-energy, easily digestible carbohydrate source for livestock and aquaculture, improving growth performance and feed conversion efficiency.
Nanotechnology: Serves as a template for the synthesis of nanoparticles (e.g., metal oxides, quantum dots) due to its branched cyclic structure, enabling controlled particle size and dispersion.
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