This invention provides (a) nanoparticle made of: sugar-beet pectin; and a bioactive compound (such as a nutraceutical or a drug) bound to sugar-beet pectin. The invention further provides foods, beverages, including clear ones, or pharmaceutical preparations, which are supplemented with the nanoparticles made of: sugar-beet pectin; and a hydrophobic bioactive compound bound to sugar-beet pectin. The process of making the nanoparticles of the invention, and methods for supplementing foods or beverages or pharmaceutical preparations with bioactive compounds via the nanoparticles of the invention are also provided.