Encapsulated betalains (Opuntia ficus-indica) as natural colorants. Case study: Gummy candies (original) (raw)

Gummy candies were selected as model food system to incorporate betalain-rich capsules (BC) obtained by ionic gelation with calcium alginate from a betalain-rich extract of Opuntia-ficus-indica fruit. Ten formulations were obtained by a factorial design (2 × 5) with two types of gelatin (GA and GB), and five betalain-rich capsules/ gelatin (BC/G) ratios (from 70/30 to 30/70). The rheological and morphological properties of all formulations were studied, finding that the viscoelastic, gel strength, and stress relaxation properties were dependent on the G type content in the ratio BC/G. Optical micrographs also showed that G type, bloom, and BC/G ratio had a marked influence on the gummy candies structure. These data suggested that the G addition in higher concentrations allows to develop a more rigid gel. The betanin stability in the food system was evaluated during storage at 4°C for 30 days and there was no significant variation in total colour parameters for all samples (ΔE * values less than four). Thus, the stability of the betalain colour in the gummy candy was confirmed, exhibiting this food product a vivid red-purple colour, such representing a promising application for these natural pigments in food industry.

Sign up for access to the world's latest research.

checkGet notified about relevant papers

checkSave papers to use in your research

checkJoin the discussion with peers

checkTrack your impact