Nutritional function basis, research and development history and development trend of Antarctic krill products

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), as a strategic marine biological resource, has attracted widespread attentions in recent years. Antarctic krill products as the carriers for realizing the industrial and commercial value of Antarctic krill, they are also the ultimate manifestation of basic research and technological integration. This article introduces Antarctic krill products from the perspectives of their nutritional functions, product categories, and research and development history. Antarctic krill protein is rich in high-quality amino acids and bioactive peptides, offering health benefits such as antioxidant activities, antihypertensive effects, and improved mineral absorption capacities. Antarctic krill lipid is rich in components, such as phospholipids, providing cardiovascular-protective benefits, anti-inflammatory effects, and antioxidant activities. Chitin and chitosan, as well as minerals and vitamins, exhibit synergistic effects. Antarctic krill products are extensively used in food, animal feed, health supplements, and cosmetics fields. The research and development history of Antarctic krill products has gone through three stages: initial exploration, large-scale utilization, and diversified processing, and exhibited a phased upgrade characteristics. This paper summarized the technical characteristics, current state of research and development, and major challenges of Antarctic krill products at different developmental stages. From a product perspective, this article provides the theoretical references for basic research, technological innovation, standardization, and future trends of Antarctic krill products, conduces to promote the healthy and sustainable development of Antarctic krill industry.