Polyphenol–Polysaccharide Complex: Preparation, Characterization, and Potential Utilization in Food and Health

Polysaccharides and polyphenols coexist in many plant-based food products. Polyphenol–polysaccharide interactions may affect the physicochemical, functional, and physiological properties, such as digestibility, bioavailability, and stability, of plant-based foods. In this review, the interactions (physically or covalently linked) between the selected polysaccharides and polyphenols are summarized. The preparation and structural characterization of the polyphenol–polysaccharide conjugates, their structural–interaction relationships, and the effects of the interactions on functional and physiological properties of the polyphenol and polysaccharide molecules are reviewed. Moreover, potential applications of polyphenol–polysaccharide conjugates are discussed. This review aids in a comprehensive understanding of the synthetic strategy, beneficial bioactivity, and potential application of polyphenol–polysaccharide complexes.