Recent advances in nanocarriers for improving the stability, bioaccessibility and bioavailability of β-carotene

Purpose This review aims to compare recent nanocarrier systems for β-carotene delivery, emphasizing their capacity to enhance stability, bioaccessibility and bioavailability. Design/methodology/approach A structured search of Web of Science and PubMed identified peer reviewed English articles published from 2020 to 2025, supplemented by earlier key reports. Search terms combined “β-carotene” with relevant delivery and performance indicators. Findings Nanoemulsions favor rapid lipolysis and micellization, whereas liposomes and polymeric or lipid nanoparticles provide stronger protection and tunable release at the cost of greater complexity. Performance depends on oil digestibility, interfacial properties and enzymatic accessibility. Reported bioaccessibility varies widely due to methodological differences; in vivo evidence remains limited. No universal carrier exists. Selection should be based on the target matrix, processing conditions, release site and regulatory context, with a clear distinction between in vitro bioaccessibility and in vivo bioavailability. Originality/value Progress relies on harmonized digestion protocols, direct carrier comparisons, scalable production, safety evaluation, transparent labeling and stronger correlations between in vitro performance and in vivo outcomes.