Bioactive peptides derived from milk : formation and functional benefits

Nowadays, consumer concern about the rampant growth of noncommunicable diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, has increased the demand for and interest in health-promoting foods. Milk-derived bioactive peptides (BP) have been identified as potential ingredients in functional foods. BP offer multifunctional properties such as ACE inhibitors, immune modulators, antioxidants, and antimicrobials and have mineral-binding effects. BP derived from milk proteins offer several health benefits. These peptides are obtained from various foods derived from protein sources but released by enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial fermentation, and chemical processes. This chapter gives in-depth information on the formation of BP and the associated benefits.