Pea protein and starch: Functional properties and applications in edible films

Abstract

Edible films and coatings, composed of biological components such as proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides, play a pivotal role in various applications. While proteins from diverse plant sources, including maize, soy, and wheat, have been extensively explored for their film-forming capabilities, soybean protein remains predominant in edible films. Nonetheless, researchers have increasingly investigated alternative legume proteins, such as those derived from various beans, peanuts, and field peas, as potential candidates for edible film applications. Pea, ranked fourth globally in food legume production after soybean, peanuts, and dry beans, emerges as a promising source for edible film production. Pea protein, valued for its low cost, high protein content, and absence of genetic modifications, along with pea starch, a by-product of pea protein extraction, has become the focal point of numerous studies in edible film development. This comprehensive review focuses on the examination of pea protein isolate, pea starch, and the edible films derived from these compounds. Functional properties of both pea protein and pea starch are systematically discussed. Subsequently, we delve into the extraction methods of these components, progressing to the creation of edible films from these materials. It then delves into various characteristics of edible films produced from pea protein and pea starch, encompassing mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, transparency, and solubility. Additionally, the review explores the influence of factors such as pH, heating, plasticizers, and other treatments on these film properties. Studies highlighted in this review demonstrate that modified edible film solutions based on pea protein and pea starch exhibit considerable potential for diverse applications in both food and non-food sectors. The promising outcomes suggest that these compounds could be utilized to produce edible films tailored to specific requirements, offering new possibilities for advancements in various industries.