https://doi.org/10.17113/ftb.58.02.20.6279

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Synthesis of Nano-Scale Biopolymer Particles from Legume Protein Isolates and Carrageenan

Indika Dilrukshi Koralegedara, Charith Aravinda Hettiarachchi*, Batugahage Don Rohitha Prasantha and Kuruppu Mudiyanselage Swarna Wimalasiri

Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, 20400 Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Article history:

Received: 7 March 2019

Accepted: 10 July 2020

Key words:

biopolymer particles, protein-polysaccharide interactions, electrostatic complexes, legume proteins, carrageenan

Summary:

Research background. Food proteins and polysaccharides can be used for the synthesis of nano-scale biopolymer particles with potential applications in the fields of food and pharmaceuticals. This study focuses on utilizing legume proteins for the production of biopolymer particles via regulation of their electrostatic interactions with carrageenan.

Experimental approach. Protein isolates were obtained from mung bean (Vigna radiata), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and black gram (Vigna mungo) and their protein profiles were determined. Next, these isolates were allowed to interact with carrageenan at pH=5.0-7.0 to determine optimum conditions for obtaining nano-scale biopolymer particles. Selected biopolymer mixtures were then subjected to a heat treatment (85 °C for 20 min) to enhance the interactions among biopolymers.

Results and conclusions. Nano-scale biopolymer complexes were obtained at pH=6.5. They were roughly spherical in shape with a majority having a diameter in the range of approx. 100-150 nm. Heating of the biopolymer mixtures increased the diameter of the biopolymer particles by approx. 2.5-fold. In addition, their negative surface charge was increased, stabilizing them against aggregation over a broader pH range (4.0-7.0), enhancing their potential to be utilized in food matrices.

Novelty and scientific contribution. This study reports the applicability of mung bean, cowpea and black gram proteins for the synthesis of stable biopolymer particles. These biopolymer particles can be potentially used for the encapsulation and delivery of bioactive components.