Characteristics and trends in global Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN) research (2002–2021): a review and bibliometric study

Edible bird’s nest (EBN) is a valuable animal bioproduct produced by Swiftlets in Southeast Asia. Numerous researchers reported that EBN has rich nutritional value and high bioactive potential with numerous therapeutic benefits. For the first time, this paper evaluated the EBN research knowledge to conduct an in-depth statistical analysis and identify research trends, advancements, and hotspots. For this purpose, a combined methodologies based on bibliometric analysis and literature review was adopted. In total, 148 publications related to research EBN from 2002 to 2021 were identified. Three research hotspots were reviewed and discussed: (i) authentication and identification of EBN, (ii) beneficial and therapeutic properties of EBN, and (iii) EBN as active ingredients for functional food development. EBN has excellent potential as a value-ingredient with beneficial properties for commercial applications. Finally, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the EBN research trends and describes some current challenges and trends, which will remain the research focus and potent tool for future food scientists working on EBN functional food development. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].