Soluble fibers inhibit carotenoid micellization in vitro and uptake by Caco-2 cells.

We evaluated the effects of soluble fibers on beta-carotene and lutein micellization during simulated digestion in vitro, and on carotenoid uptake from mixed micelles by Caco-2 cells. Medium- and high-viscosity alginates and pectins inhibited carotenoid micellization and cellular uptake relative to the fiber-free control. Alginates, carboxy-methylcelluloses, and methylcelluloses inhibited beta-carotene uptake mainly by increasing medium viscosity, but pectins might inhibit carotenoid uptake by additional mechanisms.