Encapsulation of anthocyanins: A key for improvement of the gut-metabolism health axis?

Anthocyanins (ACNs), a class of flavonoid polyphenols responsible for pigmentation in plants, have garnered significant scientific interest for their potential health-promoting properties. Despite their demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits, their clinical efficacy is limited by low bioavailability and structural instability during digestion. This review critically examines the chemical nature, dietary sources, and structural diversity of ACNs, with an emphasis on their metabolic fate and functional interaction with the gut microbiota. Special attention is given to the emerging role of encapsulation technologies in improving ACN stability, gastrointestinal delivery, and bioaccessibility. The paper highlights compelling evidence linking ACNs and their microbial-derived metabolites to enhanced gut health and attenuation of metabolic dysfunctions. Furthermore, it explores the bidirectional relationship between ACNs and gut microbiota, elucidating how microbial metabolism shapes ACN bioactivity and systemic effects. By integrating recent advancements in food chemistry, microbiology, and nutritional science, this review emphasizes the potential of encapsulated ACNs as functional ingredients in precision nutrition and metabolic health interventions.