Advances in pH-Responsive Release Technologies in Food System: Mechanisms, Strategies, Application Forms and Future Directions

pH-responsive technology enables precise control over the release of functional molecules, thereby maximizing their bioavailability. As the first comprehensive assessment of pH-responsive systems within food science, this review systematically examines the mechanism of pH-triggered release, which covers the protonation and deprotonation of functional groups and the breaking of dynamic covalent bonds (such as imines, disulfides, and metal coordination bonds). The design strategies, responsiveness, and application potential of key carrier materials are evaluated. In addition, the applications of pH-responsive release technologies in nutrient delivery, flavor encapsulation, and food preservation are highlighted, demonstrating enhanced bioavailability, extended shelf life, and improved sensory quality. Despite promising advancements achieved so far, significant challenges remain in ensuring material stability, and meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Future research directions are proposed, including the development of food-grade, eco-friendly, and stable carrier materials, the leveraging of AI-driven optimization for integrated systems, integrating multi-stimuli responsiveness, and establishing robust safety profiles to facilitate regulatory approval, collectively establishing a solid foundation for next-generation sustainable and intelligent food packaging and delivery systems.