Use of Cyclodextrins in Food, Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industries

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are cyclic oligomers of or-D-glucose units linked by o - ,4 glycosidic bonds in a donut-shaped ring [1]. CDs are non-toxic ingredients that are not absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract and almost metabolized by the colon micro flora [2]. They, therefore, provide health benefits to people. 

CDs have special properties dependant on their molecular structures. For instance, their hydrophobic cavities can encapsulate organic and inorganic molecules with smaller molecular size to form various inclusion compounds in liquid- or sohd-state forms [3] while their hydrophilic shells can generate noninclusion complexes with larger molecular guests, such as amylose molecules and enzyme molecules [4,5]. Mainly based on the formation of the two kinds of complexes, CDs are widely used in many areas, including foods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care industries. 

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