Ultrafiltration of Banana (Musa acuminata) Juice Using Hollow Fibers for Enhanced Shelf Life

Abstract

Banana juice was clarified by cross flow ultrafiltration using a hollow fiber module under total recycle mode. Three surface-modified polysulfone-based membrane cartridges with molecular weight cut-offs 10, 27, and 44 kDa were used to identify the most suitable membrane. The effects of operating conditions—namely, transmembrane pressure drop and cross flow rate on the permeate flux and permeate quality, have been investigated. The quality of the clarified juice was evaluated in terms of viscosity, clarity, color, alcohol insoluble solids, total soluble sugar, pH, protein, and polyphenol content. The results showed that the membrane of molecular weight cut-off 27 kDa was suitable. The permeate flux depended strongly on the transmembrane pressure drop, but its variation on cross flow rate was insignificant. The clarified juice had high clarity and no pectineous materials (in terms of alcohol insoluble solids). It contained significant amount of polyphenol and protein. The storage study indicated that the juice could be successfully stored for 1 month without any additive and preservative, keeping its natural nutritional qualities, taste, and flavor intact.