Tween 80-mediated size-controlled self-assembly of resistant starch particle: A green and biodegradable white pigment for food applications

Abstract

Titanium dioxide (E171) is a widely used food additive white pigment. However, its potential toxicity necessitates an urgent quest for alternative substances. In this study, we present the Tween 80-mediated size-controlled self-assembly of well-defined resistant starch particles (TRSP) as a promising alternative white pigment. The self-assembly process yields TRSP with a highly ordered structure, exhibiting enhanced thermal stability compared to native starch. These particles have optimal reflectance and whiteness when the particle size reaches approximately 1 μm, leading to notable whiteness values of 76.3 and 89.4 for simulated hard and jelly candies, respectively. In vitro cytocompatibility assays confirm the excellent biocompatibility of TRSP. In vitro digestion assays demonstrate the presence of high-level resistant starch in TRSP, highlighting their potential benefits for gut health. Thus, TRSP not only serve as a low-calorie pigment alternative to food-grade TiO2, but they also function as potential health-beneficial ingredients in a variety of food applications.