Coassembly of Casein and Xanthan Gum as Nanocarriers for Lutein: Characterization, Interaction Mechanism, pH-Responsive Behavior, and Sustained-Release Potential

simulated digestion, CA/XG nanocarriers effectively suppressed Lut premature release in gastric fluid while enabling controlled delivery to intestinal absorption sites with sustained release in intestinal and colonic environments. This work provides a theoretical foundation for designing biopolymer-based nanocarriers to enhance the stability and functional performance of hydrophobic bioactive compounds in food applications.