Chitin and Chitosan in the Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverage Industry: An Overview

Abstract

The natural biopolymer chitin and its deacetylated derivative chitosan are abundant in nature. They are obtained from different sources, including the crustacean shells and the cell wall of fungi. Chitin and chitosan have various applications in the beverage industry, such as a flocculent to improve the clarification process, for the reduction of metals and contaminates, and to extend shelf-life. They are also used as material for the immobilization of microorganisms and enzymes, which allows the development of bioprocesses that preserve the quality of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Therefore, the main purpose of this overview is to consolidate some of the current practical applications of chitin and chitosan in the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage industry and to reveal new perspectives.