Applications In Food Industries Research Articles

Electronic Tongues and Noses: A General Overview

As technology advances, electronic tongues and noses are becoming increasingly important in various industries. These devices can accurately detect and identify different substances and gases based on their chemical composition. This can be incredibly useful in fields such as environmental monitoring and industrial food applications, where the quality and safety of products or ecosystems should be ensured through a precise analysis. Traditionally, this task is performed by an expert panel or by using laboratory tests but sometimes becomes a bottleneck because of time and other human factors that can be solved with technologies such as the provided by electronic tongue and nose devices. Additionally, these devices can be used in medical diagnosis, quality monitoring, and even in the automotive industry to detect gas leaks. The possibilities are endless, and as these technologies continue to improve, they will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in improving our lives and ensuring our safety. Because of the multiple applications and developments in this field in the last years, this work will present an overview of the electronic tongues and noses from the point of view of the approaches developed and the methodologies used in the data analysis and steps to this aim. In the same manner, this work shows some of the applications that can be found in the use of these devices and ends with some conclusions about the current state of these technologies.

Comparative Evaluation of Secondary Metabolite Chemodiversity of Citrus Genebank Collection in Greece: Can the Peel be More than Waste?

Citrus fruits are among the most economically important crops in the world. In the global market, the Citrus peel is often considered a byproduct but substitutes an important phenotypic characteristic of the fruit and a valuable source of essential oils, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids with variable concentrations. The Mediterranean basin is a particularly dense area of autochthonous genotypes of Citrus that are known for being a source of healthy foods, which can be repertoires of valuable genes for molecular breeding with the focus on plant resistance and quality improvement. The scope of this study was to characterize and compare the main phenotypic parameters (i.e., peel thickness, fruit volume, and area) and levels of bioactive compounds in the peel of fruits from the local germplasm of Citrus in Greece, to assess their chemodiversity regarding their polyphenolic, volatile, and carotenoid profiles. A targeted liquid chromatographic approach revealed hesperidin, tangeretin, narirutin, eriocitrin, and quercetin glycosides as the major polyphenolic compounds identified in orange, lemon, and mandarin peels. The content of tangeretin and narirutin followed the tendency mandarin > orange > lemon. Eriocitrin was a predominant metabolite of lemon peel, following its identification in lower amounts in mandarin and at least in the orange peel. For these citrus-specific metabolites, high intra- but also interspecies chemodiversity was monitored. Significant diversity was found in the essential oil content, which varied between 1.2 and 3% in orange, 0.2 and 1.4% in mandarin, and 0.9 and 1.9% in lemon peel. Limonene was the predominant compound in all Citrus species peel essential oils, ranging between 88 and 93% among the orange, 64 and 93% in mandarin, and 55 and 63% in lemon cultivars. Carotenoid analysis revealed different compositions among the Citrus species and accessions studied, with β-cryptoxanthin being the most predominant metabolite. This large-scale metabolic investigation will enhance the knowledge of Citrus peel secondary metabolite chemodiversity supported by the ample availability of Citrus genetic resources to further expand their exploitation in future breeding programs and potential applications in the global functional food and pharmaceutical industries.

USE OF Prunus armeniaca L. SEED OIL AND PULP IN HEALTH AND COSMETIC PRODUCTS

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is grown at high altitudes. Apricot is a stone fruit that can grow at an altitude of 1000-2700 m (Khursheed et al., 2020). Apricot is widely used in the cosmetics industry, pharmaceutical industry and food industry. Apricots are valuable sources for functional foods and nutraceuticals. Apricot kernel and pulp are rich in polyphenols, fatty acids, carotenoids, minerals, vitamin A, ascorbic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid and ascorbic acid. It also contains microelements such as Zn, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Na, Mn, P and K. Apricotoil-based massage cream, moisturising cream, bleaching cream and skin mask are produced from apricot kernel pulp, contributing to recycling. In order to extract oil from apricot kernel, oils are extracted by cold press method. For the extraction of bioactive compounds from apricot kernels, various techniques such as solvent extraction, ultrasonication, enzyme assisted, microwave assisted and aqueous extraction are used. In general, our findings indicate that apricot kernels are a valuable source of oil with potential applications in food and cosmetic industries.

Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Citrullus mucosospermus, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera Seeds' Hydrocolloids.

Hydrocolloids form gel-like structures when dispersed in water and have garnered significant attention for their diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. The extraction of hydrocolloids from natural sources, such as seeds, presents an intriguing avenue due to the potential diversity in composition and functionality. Utilising seeds from Citrullus lanatus mucosospermus, lanatus citroides, and Moringa aligns with the growing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients in various industries. This research investigated hydrocolloids extracted from Citrullus mucosospermus (CMS), lanatus citroides, and Moringa oleifera seeds, highlighting their versatile physicochemical and functional attributes. Hydrocolloids were extracted from the seeds and subjected to analysis of their proximate composition, particle size distribution, and interfacial tension using the hot water extraction method. Protein content variation was observed among the raw oilseed (CMS, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera) flours. The protein content of the hydrocolloids surpassed that of raw oilseeds, significantly enhancing the amino acid profile. Furthermore, the hydrocolloid ash contents ranged from 4.09% to 6.52% w/w dry weight, coupled with low fat levels. The particle size distribution revealed predominantly fine particles with a narrow size distribution. All three hydrocolloids demonstrated remarkable oil- and water-holding capacities, highlighting their suitability for efficient stabilisation and emulsification in food formulations. These findings suggest the potential utilisation of these hydrocolloids as valuable ingredients across a spectrum of applications, encompassing food, pharmaceuticals, and industry, thus contributing to the development of sustainable and functional products. The unique attributes presented herein mark a noteworthy advancement in the understanding and application of novel hydrocolloids from CMS, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera.

Preparation and characterization of zein-caseinate-pectin complex nanoparticles for encapsulation of curcumin: pectin extracted by high-speed shearing from passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) peel.

Pectin extracted by high-speed shearing from passion fruit peel (HSSP) is a potentially excellent wall material for encapsulating curcumin, which has multiple advantages over pectin prepared by heated water extraction. HSSP was used to fabricate complex nanoparticles of zein-sodium caseinate-pectin for encapsulation of curcumin in this study. The influence of heating on the physicochemical properties of the composite nanoparticles was also investigated, as well as the effect of composite nanoparticles on the encapsulation efficiency, antioxidant activity and release characteristics of curcumin. The nanoparticles were formed through electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions between the proteins and HSSP. A temperature of 50 °C was more favorable for generating compact and small-sized nanoparticles, which could effectively improve the encapsulation efficiency and functional properties. Moreover, compared to other pectin used in the study, the nanoparticles prepared with HSSP showed the best functionality with a particle size of 234.28 ± 0.85 nm, encapsulation rate of 90.22 ± 0.54%, free radical scavenging rate of 78.97% and strongest protective capacity in simulated gastric fluid and intestinal release effect. Zein-sodium caseinate-HSSP is effective for encapsulating and delivering hydrophobic bioactive substances such as curcumin, which has potential applications in the functional food and pharmaceutical industries. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Changes in quality parameters and bioactive components of seedless lime fruit (Citrus latifolia) during cold storage

The postharvest maintenance quality of fruits is significant for industrial applications. The present study was conducted to evaluate of quality parameters and bioactive components of seedless lime (Citrus latifolia) fruit during cold storage. Lime fruits were packed in perforated polyethylene bags, which were then put into a perforated expanded polystyrene box, and stored in a cool chamber, at 10°C. Quality parameters including skin color, weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), juice percentage, technological index, titratable acidity (TTA), reducing and total sugars of the fruits were measured during 56 days of storage. The total phenolic content of the juices was measured using a colorimetric method of Folin-Ciocalteu. Ascorbic acid and major flavonoids of the fruits such as hesperidin and eriocitrin were quantified using HPLC-PDA methods. The results showed that cold storage kept the greenness of the fruit’s skin for up to 28 days. A minor weight loss (< 5%) was also recorded in the first 28 days of storage. The technological index of the fruits, reducing total sugars and TSS slightly increased, whereas TA somewhat decreased. Bioactive components such as phenolic and ascorbic acid contents were kept stable (p>0.05) in the first 21 days of storage but considerably reduced after 28 days of storage. A decrease in hesperidin and eriocitrin was also recorded from 21 days of storage but at a lower rate compared to that of phenolic and ascorbic acid contents. Altogether, a simple, convenient cold storage method using a perforated polyethylene bag and expanded polystyrene box can retain the quality and bioactive components of lime fruits for at least 21 days. The findings are significant for the food industrial application of storage lime fruits for fresh utilization or juice processing.

Upcycling fruit waste into microalgae biotechnology: Perspective views and way forward

Fruit and vegetable wastes are linked to the depletion of natural resources and can pose serious health and environmental risks (e.g. eutrophication, water and soil pollution, and GHG emissions) if improperly managed. Current waste management practices often fail to recover high-value compounds from fruit wastes. Among emerging valorization methods, the utilization of fruit wastes as a feedstock for microalgal biorefineries is a promising approach for achieving net zero waste and sustainable development goals. This is due to the ability of microalgae to efficiently sequester carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, utilize nutrients in wastewater, grow in facilities located on non-arable land, and produce several commercially valuable compounds with applications in food, biofuels, bioplastics, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, pharmaceutics, and various other industries. However, the application of microalgal biotechnology towards upcycling fruit wastes has yet to be implemented on the industrial scale due to several economic, technical, operational, and regulatory challenges. Here, we identify sources of fruit waste along the food supply chain, evaluate current and emerging fruit waste management practices, describe value-added compounds in fruit wastes, and review current methods of microalgal cultivation using fruit wastes as a fermentation medium. We also propose some novel strategies for the practical implementation of industrial microalgal biorefineries for upcycling fruit waste in the future.

Effect of levan polysaccharide on chronological aging in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Levan is a fructose-based biopolymer with diverse applications in medicinal, pharmaceutical, and food industries. However, despite its extensive biological and pharmacological actions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties, research on its anti-aging potential is limited. This study explored levan's impact on chronological lifespan (CLS) of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the first time. The results show that levan treatment significantly extended the CLS of wild-type (WT) yeast by preventing the accumulation of oxidative stress markers (reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyl content) and ameliorating apoptotic features such as reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, loss of plasma membrane integrity, and externalization of phosphatidylserine. By day 40 of the CLS, a significant increase in yeast viability of 6.8 % (p < 0.01), 11.9 % (p < 0.01), and 20.8 % (p < 0.01) was observed at 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL of levan concentrations, respectively, compared to control (0 %). This study's results indicate that levan treatment substantially modulates the expression of genes involved in the TORC1/Sch9 pathway. Moreover, levan treatment significantly extended the CLS of yeast antioxidant-deficient mutant sod2Δ and antiapoptotic gene-deficient mutant pep4Δ. Levan also extended the CLS of signaling pathway gene-deficient mutants such as pkh2Δ, rim15Δ, atg1, and ras2Δ, while not affecting the CLS of tor1Δ and sch9Δ.

A DFT study of the adsorption of fouling molecules (metal sulfides and hydroxides) onto TiZrO4 ceramic membranes

Ceramic membrane fouling is a constraint in the treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD), leading to a decrease in efficiency over time. Here, it is described via first-principles calculations the physical and chemical phenomena occurring on the surface of TiZrO4 filtration membranes due to the adsorption of eight potential fouling compounds [CuS, FeS, Fe2S3, CaS, Al(OH)3, Fe(OH)3, Fe(OH)2, and Cu(OH)2]. The interaction of these fouling molecules was performed onto nanostructured TiZrO4 surfaces with several pores representing the filtration membranes employed in the treatment of AMD. The adsorption energies reveal that the adsorption is feasible with all the fouling molecules studied, and it is strongly related to the molecular polarity of the adsorbate. Consequently, the adsorption of metal sulfides is more feasible than hydroxides with adsorption orders of CaS>FeS>CuS>Fe2S3, and Al(OH)3>Fe-hydroxides>Cu(OH)2. The outcomes suggest that the metal sulfide adsorption depends on the adsorbate intrinsic polarity, solvent effects, adsorbate van der Waals radius, and membrane surface topology, while the adsorption of hydroxides is less influenced by the last two factors. Density-based binding and energy decomposition analyses indicate strong electrostatic attractions and covalent bonds at the adsorbate-membrane interface supporting the chemical fouling onto ceramic filtration membranes. According to our theoretical results and the elevated concentration of Cu and Fe in AMD, we propose that FeS and CuS are mainly responsible for the fouling onto TiZrO4 membrane surfaces. These results offer valuable information on the adsorption phenomena at TiZrO4 membrane surfaces, which can be useful for metallurgy, industrial water treatment, food industry, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical applications.

EXTRACTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF Î’-GALACTOSIDASE ENZYME FROM ZIZIPHUS SPINA-CHRISTI FOR FOOD APPLICATIONS

Galactosidaseis an industrially important enzymewitha number of applications in dairy, fermentation, and food industries. The study was carried out to extract and characterize the galactosidase enzymefromZiziphusspina-christi,a therapeutic herb. The enzyme was studied for pH, temperature sensitivity, and heavy metal effects on enzyme activity. The enzyme activity of galactosidase was analysed for its capacity to hydrolyze 2-nitrophenyl -D-galactopyranoside (ONPG). The results show that at a temperature of 50 °Cand pH 5.5, the enzyme was most active.The Km and Vmax of the enzymewas 3.65 mmand 0.18 mol/min. HgCl2 and KCN was fully inhibited by the activity ofβ-galactosidase from Ziziphusspina-christi.After 4h, Ziziphusspina-christiβ-galactosidase reduced milk lactose by 38.5% and 70%. Hg+2was decreased most heavily by β-galactosidase activity, whereas Cu+2reduced the least. Study results confirm the efficacy ofβ-galactosidaseenzymefrom Ziziphusspina-christi leaf extract which can be utilized in food and healthcare industry.

Exploration of Exopolysaccharide from Leuconostoc mesenteroides HDE-8: Unveiling Structure, Bioactivity, and Food Industry Applications.

A strain of Leuconostoc mesenteroides HDE-8 was isolated from homemade longan fermentation broth. The exopolysaccharide (EPS) yield of the strain was 25.1 g/L. The EPS was isolated and purified, and the structure was characterized using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The monosaccharide composition of the EPS was glucose, with a molecular weight (Mw) of 1.7 × 106 Da. NMR spectroscopy revealed that the composition of the HDE-8 EPS consisted of D-glucose pyranose linked by α-(1→4) and α-(1→6) bonds. The SEM analysis of the EPS showed an irregular sheet-like structure. Physicochemical analysis demonstrated that EPSs exhibit excellent thermal stability and high viscosity, making them suitable for fermentation in heat-processed and acidic foods. Additionally, milk coagulation tests showed that the presence of EPSs promotes milk coagulation when supplemented with sucrose. It suggests that EPSs have wide-ranging potential applications as food additives, improving the texture and taste of dairy products. This study provides practical guidance for the commercial use of HDE-8 EPSs in the food and related industries.

Isoprenyl diphosphate synthases of terpenoid biosynthesis in rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

The essential oil of Pelargonium graveolens (rose-scented geranium), an important aromatic plant, comprising mainly mono- and sesqui-terpenes, has applications in food and cosmetic industries. This study reports the characterization of isoprenyl disphosphate synthases (IDSs) involved in P. graveolens terpene biosynthesis. The six identified PgIDSs belonged to different classes of IDSs, comprising homomeric geranyl diphosphate synthases (GPPSs; PgGPPS1 and PgGPPS2), the large subunit of heteromeric GPPS or geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthases (GGPPSs; PgGGPPS), the small subunit of heteromeric GPPS (PgGPPS.SSUI and PgGPPS.SSUII), and farnesyl diphosphate synthases (FPPS; PgFPPS).All IDSs exhibited maximal expression in glandular trichomes (GTs), the site of aroma formation, and their expression except PgGPPS.SSUII was induced upon treatment with MeJA. Functional characterization of recombinant proteins revealed that PgGPPS1, PgGGPPS and PgFPPS were active enzymes producing GPP, GGPP/GPP, and FPP respectively, whereas both PgGPPS.SSUs and PgGPPS2 were inactive. Co-expression of PgGGPPS (that exhibited bifunctional G(G)PPS activity) with PgGPPS.SSUs in bacterial expression system showed lack of interaction between the two proteins, however, PgGGPPS interacted with a phylogenetically distant Antirrhinum majus GPPS.SSU. Further, transient expression of AmGPPS.SSU in P. graveolens leaf led to a significant increase in monoterpene levels. These findings provide insight into the types of IDSs and their role in providing precursors for different terpenoid components of P. graveolens essential oil.

Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Analysis of lemongrass leaves: identification of bioactive compounds and their potential application

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a widely recognized aromatic herb which is popularly used in traditional medicine and culinary practices across the globe. This research study presents a comprehensive GC-MS analysis of lemongrass leaves, aimed to identify its bioactive compounds. The study explores the chemical composition of lemongrass leaves, focusing on potential applications in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The analysis reveals various volatile and non-volatile compounds, shedding light on the therapeutic properties and potential commercial applications of this aromatic plant.

Encapsulation of Antarctic krill oil and kaempferol co‐loaded nano‐liposomes in alginate‐chitosan hydrogel beads: improved stability and modified digestive behaviour

SummaryIn this study, alginate (NaAlg) and/or chitosan (CS) hydrogel beads were prepared to encapsulate Antarctic krill oil (AKO) and kaempferol (KL) co‐loaded nano‐liposomes. The SEM study confirmed that the hydrogel beads were spherical, in which nano‐liposomes was distributed evenly within the polymer network. The FTIR spectra indicated no evidence of any chemical interaction between nano‐liposomes and hydrogel beads. The hydrogel beads especially the NaAlg‐CS hydrogel beads caused decrease in the release of KL and AKO mostly own to the improved density of bead microstructure. Furthermore, the network structure in the hydrogel beads especially the NaAlg‐CS hydrogel beads successfully insulated oxygen to improve AKO oxidation stability and protected KL by preventing degradation under natural light, while maintaining its antioxidant capacity. Importantly, the hydrogel beads significantly reduced the release of free fatty acids during in vitro digestion compared to nano‐liposomes. In principle, these new delivery systems may combine the benefits of nano‐liposomes and hydrogel beads to encapsulate AKO and KL and broaden their applicability in food industry.

Thermostable bacterial L-asparaginase for polyacrylamide inhibition and in silico mutational analysis.

The L-asparaginase (ASPN) enzyme has received recognition in various applications including acrylamide degradation in the food industry. The synthesis and application of thermostable ASPN enzymes is required for its use in the food sector, where thermostable enzymes can withstand high temperatures. To achieve this goal, the bacterium Bacillus subtilis was isolated from the hot springs of Tapovan for screening the production of thermostable ASPN enzyme. Thus, ASPN with a maximal specific enzymatic activity of 0.896 U/mg and a molecular weight of 66kDa was produced from the isolated bacteria. The kinetic study of the enzyme yielded a Km value of 1.579mM and a Vmax of 5.009µM/min with thermostability up to 100min at 75°C. This may have had a positive indication for employing the enzyme to stop polyacrylamide from being produced. The current study has also been extended to investigate the interaction of native and mutated ASPN enzymes with acrylamide. This concluded that the M10 (with 10 mutations) has the highest protein and thermal stability compared to the wild-type ASPN protein sequence. Therefore, in comparison to a normal ASPN and all other mutant ASPNs, M10 is the most favorable mutation. This research has also demonstrated the usage of ASPN in food industrial applications.

Mint species (Mentha longifolia and Mentha spicata L) growth, essential oil generation and chemical components are impacted by turmeric curcumin applications

Mint essential oil has several applications in pharmacy and food industries. As mint species multiplied, active chemicals evolved, resulting in changes in their biological effects. Mint growth in Egypt’s sandy soils is hampered by abiotic stress. Phenols like turmeric curcumin reduce abiotic stress which plant suffers. Finding active chemicals in various aromatic plant species to substitute synthetic ones is an enticing approach to developing a new pharmaceutical regimen; these plants need to be studied to locate active components. Therefore, this study aimed to reduce the potential negative effects of abiotic stress in sand soil on horsemint (Mentha longifolia) and spearmint (Mentha spicata L) by applying turmeric curcumin (as organic elicitor), to assess if growing them in the new reclamation zones is a viable option in order to obtain essential oil naturally. Both species received 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin. Horsemint exposed to 30 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin produced the maximum values of plant length (93 cm), fresh herb (114.73 g plant−1) and dry herb (33.81 g plant−1); spearmint × 30 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin resulted in the greatest amounts of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids with values of 5.38, 1.83 and 1.45 mg g−1, respectively. The maximum values of eucalyptol (65.44%), camphor (23.81%), carvone (65.95%) and limonene (15.9%) were recorded under 90 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin. Horsemint plants subjected to 60 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin gave the highest essential oil yield (1.52 g plant−1), sesquiterpenes (31.4%), soluble sugars (102.19 mg g−1), free amino acids (8.73 mg g−1), phenols (3.71 mg g−1), flavonoids (5.28 mg g−1), free radical's inhibition (64.35%), protein (17.09%) and nitrogen (1.27 g plant−1); spearmint × 60 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin resulted in the greatest values of monoterpenes (98.76%), nitrogen (2.74%), phosphorous (0.54% or 0.17 g plant−1) and potassium (0.56% or 0.18 g plant−1). Control × spearmint gave the maximum value of sodium (0.17% or 0.04 g plant−1). To mitigate the detrimental effects of stress-related factors on sandy soil, turmeric curcumin can be applied to mint species; additionally, it could broaden the sources of natural products. On the other hand, this work provides as a guide for choosing mint species for usage in industries connected to essential oils based on pertinent components.

Investigating the nutritional viability of marine-derived protein for sustainable future development

Marine-derived proteins are emerging as a pivotal resource with diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnological industries. The marine environment offers many protein sources, including fish, shellfish, algae, and microbes, which garnered attention due to their nutritional composition. Evaluating their protein and amino acid profiles is essential in assessing their viability as substitutes for conventional protein sources. Continuously exploiting marine ecosystems for protein extraction has led to significant environmental impacts. The optimization of aquacultural practices and implementation of innovative practices are imperative for the sustainable production of marine-based protein. This review will discuss the different sources of marine proteins, their nutritional profile, and their associated environmental impact. It also reviews the relationship between aquaculture advancements and regulatory frameworks toward attaining sustainable practices, alongside exploring the challenges and potentials in utilizing marine sources for protein production.

Rheology, physicochemical properties, and microstructure of fish gelatin emulsion gel modified by γ-polyglutamic acid.

In this work, the effect of the addition of γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) on the rheology, physicochemical properties, and microstructure of fish gelatin (FG) emulsion gel was investigated. Samples of the emulsion gel were evaluated for rheological behavior and stability prior to gelation. The mechanical properties and water-holding capacity (WHC) of the emulsion were determined after gelation. The microstructure of the emulsion gel was further examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The results indicated a gradual increase in the apparent viscosity and gelation temperature of the emulsion at a higher concentration of γ-PGA. Additionally, frequency scan results revealed that on the addition of γ-PGA, FG emulsion exhibited a stronger structure. The emulsion containing 0.1% γ-PGA exhibited higher stability than that of the control samples. The WHC and gel strength of the emulsion gel increased on increasing the γ-PGA concentration. CLSM images showed that the addition of γ-PGA modified the structure of the emulsion gel, and the droplets containing 0.1% γ-PGA were evenly distributed. Moreover, γ-PGA could regulate the droplet size of the FG emulsion and its size distribution. These findings suggest that the viscoelasticity and structure of FG emulsion gels could be regulated by adjusting the γ-PGA concentration. The γ-PGA-modified FG emulsion gel also exhibited improved rheology and physicochemical properties. The results showed that γ-PGA-modified FG emulsion gel may find potential applications in food, medicine, cosmetics, and other industries.

Production, characterization, and applications of a novel thermo-acidophilic L-asparaginase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa CSPS4

In present investigation, a potential L-asparaginase-producing bacterial isolate, Pseudomonas aeruginosa CSPS4, has been explored to enhance the production and purification of the asparaginase enzyme. Production of L-asparaginase is enhanced using the 'one variable at a time approach (OVAT)'. In Placket Burman (PB) analysis, pH, sucrose, and temperature significantly influence L-asparaginase production. Thereafter, L-asparaginase enzyme was recovered from culture broth using fractional precipitation with chilled acetone. The partially purified L-asparaginase showed a molecular weight of ~35 KDa on SDS-PAGE. L-asparaginase was characterized as a thermo-acidophilic enzyme exhibiting optimum pH and temperature of 6.0 and 60 °C, respectively. These characteristics render this enzyme novel from other available asparaginases of Pseudomonas spp. L-asparaginase activity remained unaffected by different modulators. L-asparaginase of this investigation was successfully employed for acrylamide degradation in commercial fried potato chips, establishing its applicability in food industries.

Transformations in Properties of Indian Barnyard Millet Starch as Induced by Ultra‐Sonication and Gamma Irradiation

AbstractThis study aims to assess the effect of physical modification techniques on the properties of millet starch. The starch isolated from barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) is subjected to ultrasonication (20 kHz; 30 and 60 min) and gamma irradiation (5 and 10 kGy). The protein content decreases slightly (by 2.5–3.8%) with gamma irradiation and significantly (by 5.7–6.9%) with ultrasonication. As compared to the native starch (20.56%), the amylose content of ultrasonicated starch is significantly higher (21.42% and 21.88%), while it is significantly lower (19.73% and 19.18%) for gamma‐irradiated starch. The swelling power of the native starch (13.57%) increases significantly with ultrasonication (14.21% and 14.33%) treatment; while it decreases significantly with gamma irradiation (13.17% and 12.25%) treatment. The solubility increases to 11.23%, 11.19%, 12.09%, and 13.31% from 10.45%, with both modifications. The peak viscosity of modified starches decreases significantly (2872 and 2700 cP) as compared to the native starch (3832 cP). The starches exhibit a greater value for storage modulus (G′) as compared to loss modulus (G″), reflecting their elastic nature. These transformations in the microstructure, gelatinization, and physicochemical properties of native starch can further be explored for food and textile industrial applications.