Potential of Nanocellulose Prepared from Agricultural By-products for Food Use

Abstract

Nanocellulose, a plant-derived nanomaterial, has been attracting attention as a functional material with low environmental impact because it exhibits remarkable material properties that reflect the properties of cellulose in the characteristics of nanofibers. However, in order to promote the practical use of nanocellulose, it is essential to find applications that take advantage of the unique characteristics of nanocellulose. In this review, we focus on the components other than cellulose contained in nanocellulose, and summarize the localization of hemicellulose and lignin, which constitute wood, and the effects of these components. In addition, we also summarize the characteristics of nanocellulose prepared from agricultural by-products, which are composed of various components different from wood, and the potential of nanocellulose for food use.