Polysaccharide-based Janus materials: classification, multiscale structure, and applications in the food industry.

Abstract

Janus materials with anisotropic surface exhibit novel physicochemical and functional characteristics compared to isotropic materials, offering great potential in advanced food applications. Among them, polysaccharide-based Janus materials have gained increasing attention due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and structural tunability. This review summarized recent progress in the design and application of polysaccharide-based Janus materials across multiscale structures, including particles, films, and gels. Through anisotropic modifications such as chemical functionalization and selective crosslinking, polysaccharide-based Janus materials exhibit tailored functionalities including self-assembled thickening, intelligent packaging, interfacial stabilization, and environmentally responsive delivery. Representative examples include starch-based Janus particles as super-thickeners, cellulose acetate-based Janus films serving as colorimetric sensors for real-time freshness monitoring, and sodium alginate-based Janus gel beads enhancing the retention and targeted release of functional factors. This review provides foundational insights for the development of novel, multifunctional, food-grade Janus systems.