Stabilization Strategies for Catechins and Epicatechins: Recent Advances

ABSTRACT Functional foods enriched with bioactive polyphenols are gaining increasing global economic importance due to their potential to promote health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Catechin and epicatechin are well‐recognized compounds exhibiting cardiometabolic, antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. They are available in many products such as fruit‐based beverages, green tea and chocolate. Nevertheless, their chemical instability, oxidation and epimerization during food processing and storage limit their application in food systems. The present review critically evaluates the recent stabilization approaches to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and functional properties of catechins and epicatechins in food and beverage systems. A systematic literature was conducted according to The PRISMA guidelines using Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar to identify and screen peer‐reviewed studies. Articles assessing encapsulation technologies, physicochemical modifications and biotechnological treatments to preserve flavanol integrity in complex food matrices were included. Encapsulation techniques, such as nano‐ and microencapsulation, have been significantly effective in increasing the stability of catechins during processing and storage. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that optimization of processing conditions (temperature, pH, and protective packaging) can enhance the retention of catechin in beverages and functional foods. These strategies can improve chemical stability and retention, facilitate controlled release and enhance bioaccessibility in some formulations. With the advancement of stabilization and delivery technologies, catechins and epicatechins are now considered viable ingredients in functional beverages and food with strong commercial viability. Future studies should be focused on clinical validation, combinatorial formulations, and scalable stabilization methods to maximize health benefits and industrial use.