Physical Preparation, Morphology, and Application of Nanosized Starch Materials

Nano-starch has attracted great attention owing to its high biocompatibility, easy availability, low sensitization, small size, and diverse morphologies for applications in the fields of food, medicine, cosmetics, etc. Nowadays, it is emphasized on the assembly of nano-starch with green and high-productivity methods, especially physical methods with or without the help of other processes (like acid and enzymatic hydrolyses). In this chapter, we focus on the physical techniques including high-pressure homogenization, ultrasonication, gamma irradiation, and milling to obtain starch nanoparticles with different structures (as well as morphologies) and properties. Additionally, the merits of polymorphic nano-starch formed with the assistance of physical methods are also summarized. Furthermore, it is expected to provide information on the potential applications of starch nanoparticles in emulsion and delivery systems.