Résumé
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that contributes to maintain tissue integrity and to prevent diseases associated with excessive oxidative stress. In addition to its role as an antioxidant in vivo, vitamin A is involved in numerous physiological processes, including vision, growth and development, and immune system function. However, due to its five conjugated double bonds, Vitamin A is poorly stable and prone to oxidation, which can lead to reduced potency and efficiency in various applications. Whether used as dietary supplement or in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, it is essential to ensure the stability of vitamin A until the end of the product's shelf life. Currently, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is the most commonly used antioxidant in vitamin A formulations. However, this synthetic antioxidant is increasingly being criticized for its potential carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects. In order to improve products and meet consumer demand, it is now necessary to find alternative antioxidants, preferably natural or bio-based, providing equivalent or superior protection. In our study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation, including spectroscopic analyses and stability assessments, to evaluate the efficacy of various antioxidants in protecting vitamin A and its esters against oxidation in various emulsions formulated using the solvent displacement nano-precipitation method. Our findings allow to classify antioxidants according to their efficiency in protecting Vitamin A and its esters from oxidation in emulsion.