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Van Rooyen B, De Wit M, Osthoff G, Van Niekerk J. Cactus Pear Mucilage ( Opuntia spp.) as a Novel Functional Biopolymer: Mucilage Extraction, Rheology and Biofilm Development. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1993. [PMID: 39065310 PMCID: PMC11281074 DOI: 10.3390/polym16141993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The investigation of novel, natural polymers has gained considerably more exposure for their desirable, often specific, functional properties. Multiple researchers have explored these biopolymers to determine their potential to address many food processing, packaging and environmental concerns. Mucilage from the cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is one such biopolymer that has been identified as possessing a functional potential that can be used in an attempt to enhance food properties and reduce the usage of non-biodegradable, petroleum-based packaging in the food industry. However, variations in the structural composition of mucilage and the different extraction methods that have been reported by researchers have considerably impacted mucilage's functional potential. Although not comparable, these factors have been investigated, with a specific focus on mucilage applications. The natural ability of mucilage to bind water, alter the rheology of a food system and develop biofilms are considered the major applications of mucilage's functional properties. Due to the variations that have been reported in mucilage's chemical composition, specifically concerning the proportions of uronic acids, mucilage's rheological and biofilm properties are influenced differently by changes in pH and a cross-linker. Exploring the factors influencing mucilage's chemical composition, while co-currently discussing mucilage functional applications, will prove valuable when evaluating mucilage's potential to be considered for future commercial applications. This review article, therefore, discusses and highlights the key factors responsible for mucilage's specific functional potential, while exploring important potential food processing and packaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Van Rooyen
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Maryna De Wit
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Gernot Osthoff
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Johan Van Niekerk
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
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Van Rooyen B, De Wit M, Osthoff G, Van Niekerk J, Hugo A. Effect of pH on the Mechanical Properties of Single-Biopolymer Mucilage ( Opuntia ficus-indica), Pectin and Alginate Films: Development and Mechanical Characterisation. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4640. [PMID: 38139892 PMCID: PMC10747180 DOI: 10.3390/polym15244640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pectin and alginate are well-established biopolymers used in natural film development. Single-polymer mucilage films were developed from freeze-dried native mucilage powder of two cultivars, 'Algerian' and 'Morado', and the films' mechanical properties were compared to single-polymer pectin and alginate films developed from commercially available pectin and alginate powders. The casting method prepared films forming solutions at 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% (w/w) for each polymer. Considerable variations were observed in the films' strength and elasticity between the various films at different polymer concentrations. Although mucilage films could be produced at 5% (w/w), both cultivars could not produce films with a tensile strength (TS) greater than 1 MPa. Mucilage films, however, displayed > 20% elongation at break (%E) values, being noticeably more elastic than the pectin and alginate films. The mechanical properties of the various films were further modified by varying the pH of the film-forming solution. The various films showed increased TS and puncture force (PF) values, although these increases were more noticeable for pectin and alginate than mucilage films. Although single-polymer mucilage films exhibit the potential to be used in developing natural packaging, pectin and alginate films possess more suitable mechanical attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Van Rooyen
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Maryna De Wit
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Gernot Osthoff
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Johan Van Niekerk
- Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
| | - Arno Hugo
- Department of Animal Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9301, South Africa
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Kong I, Degraeve P, Pui LP. Polysaccharide-Based Edible Films Incorporated with Essential Oil Nanoemulsions: Physico-Chemical, Mechanical Properties and Its Application in Food Preservation-A Review. Foods 2022; 11:555. [PMID: 35206032 PMCID: PMC8871330 DOI: 10.3390/foods11040555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible films with essential oils (EOs) are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to synthetic packaging due to their environmentally friendly properties and ability as carriers of active compounds. However, the required amounts of EOs to impart effective antimicrobial properties generally exceed the organoleptic acceptance levels. However, by nanoemulsifying EOs, it is possible to increase their antimicrobial activity while reducing the amount required. This review provides an overview of the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of polysaccharide-based edible films incorporated with EOs nanoemulsions and of their application to the preservation of different food types. By incorporating EOs nanoemulsions into the packaging matrix, these edible films can help to extend the shelf-life of food products while also improving the quality and safety of the food product during storage. It can be concluded that these edible films have the potential to be used in the food industry as a green, sustainable, and biodegradable method for perishable foods preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ianne Kong
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Pascal Degraeve
- BioDyMIA Research Unit, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, ISARA Lyon, 155 rue Henri de Boissieu, F-01 000 Bourg en Bresse, France;
| | - Liew Phing Pui
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
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Preparation and Chemical and Physical Characteristics of an Edible Film Based on Native Potato Starch and Nopal Mucilage. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13213719. [PMID: 34771277 PMCID: PMC8588235 DOI: 10.3390/polym13213719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible films prepared from biological materials are being massively used. This study aimed to prepare edible films from native potato starch of the Allcca sipas variety (Solanum tuberosum subsp. Andigena), nopal mucilage (Opuntia ficus indica), and glycerol. Twelve edible films were prepared with starch, mucilage, and glycerin in different proportions by thermosynthesis. It was observed that mucilage and glycerol have a significant direct effect on film solubility and an inverse effect on aw, while the effect of starch is the opposite. The aw ranged from 0.562 to 0.639. The FTIR analysis showed the interaction of the components in the films being considerably influenced by the addition of mucilage. The TGA/DTA analysis reported low thermal stability in the films, retaining water around 100 °C, and showing a tendency to lose weight when the content of starch is high, while the opposite occurred with the addition of mucilage; it was also observed that around 310 °C, the maximum weight loss was observed between 53.6 and 86.1%. SEM images showed uniform films without cracks. The results are promising and show the possibility of preparing edible films from native potato starch and mucilage.
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da Silva Santos É, Braz de Oliveira AJ, de Fátima Pires da Silva Machado M, Mangolin CA, Correia Gonçalves RA. Cereus hildmannianus (K.) Schum. (Cactaceae): Ethnomedical uses, phytochemistry and biological activities. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113339. [PMID: 32898627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cereus hildmannianus (K.) Schum. (syn. C. peruvianus) is a native medicinal plant in the Neotropical region. C. hildmannianus cladodes extracts are used in folk medicine for weight loss, reducing cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, as diuretic and cardiotonic, and to treat various diseases, including pulmonary disorders, rheumatism, and in topical treatment for wounds and lithiasis. Fruits and flowers of C. hildmmanianus have high nutritional value. AIM OF THE REVIEW In this review, previous reports on C. hildmannianus (syn. C. peruvianus) concerning its botanical description, geographical distribution, ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties, food benefits and plant biotechnology were summarized. MATERIALS AND METHODS Scientific search engines, including ScienceDirect, Capes Journals Portal, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scielo, and Scifinder, were consulted to gather data on C. hildmannianus. The present review is an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of phytochemical compounds, ethnomedicinal uses, phytopharmacological activities, and food value of cladodes, flowers, fruits, seeds, and tissue culture from C. hildmannianus. RESULTS In traditional medicine, C.hildmannianus is used to treat various diseases, including pulmonary disorders, rheumatism, and in topical treatment for wounds and lithiasis. The extracts from the cladodes of C. hildmannianus exhibited numerous in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities such as gastroprotective, antioxidant, antifungal, ovicidal, hemagglutinating and slimming, and anticancer activity. These extracts' substances belong to different classes of chemical compounds such as fatty acids, polysaccharides, terpenes, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids CONCLUSIONS: Ethnomedicinal surveys have indicated the use of C. hildmannianus, an important medicinal plant in South America, for the treatment of various diseases. The ethnobotanical, phytochemical, pharmacological, and ethnomedicinal properties from various morphological parts of the plant of C. hildmannianus were highlighted in this review, which provides information for future studies, commercial exploration and reveals that this plant has a huge potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éverton da Silva Santos
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo 5790, 87.020-900, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Arildo José Braz de Oliveira
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo 5790, 87.020-900, Maringá, Brazil
| | | | - Claudete Aparecida Mangolin
- Department of Biotechnology, Genetic and Cell Biology, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo 5790, 87.020-900, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Regina Aparecida Correia Gonçalves
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo 5790, 87.020-900, Maringá, Brazil.
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Arabinoxylan and rhamnogalacturonan mucilage: Outgoing and potential trends of pharmaceutical, environmental, and medicinal merits. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 165:2550-2564. [PMID: 33115647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.10.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Demand for safe, environmentally friendly and minimally processed food additives with intrinsic technological (stabilizing, texturizing, structuring) and functional potential is already on the rise. There are actually several natural excipients eligible for pharmaceutical formulation. Mucilage, as a class constitutes arabinoxylan and rhamnogalacturonan-based biomolecules used in the pharmaceutical, environmental as well as phytoremediation industries owing to its particular structure and properties. These compounds are widely used in pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics, as well as, in agriculture, paper industries. This review emphasizes mucilage valuable applications in the pharmaceutical and industrial fields. In this context, much focus has recently been given to the valorization of mucilage as an ingredient for food or nutraceutical applications. Furthermore, different optimization and extraction techniques are presented to develop better utilization and/or enhanced yield of mucilage. The highlighted mucilage extraction methods warrant assessing up-scale processes to encourage for its industrial applications. The current article capitalizes on cutting-edge characteristics of mucilage and posing for other possible innovative applications in non-food industries. Here, the first holistic overview of mucilage with regards to its physicochemical properties and potential novel usages is presented.
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Brito TBN, Ferreira MSL, Fai AEC. Utilization of Agricultural By-products: Bioactive Properties and Technological Applications. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2020.1804930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. B. N. Brito
- Food and Nutrition Graduate Program, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
| | - M. S. L Ferreira
- Food and Nutrition Graduate Program, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
- Department of Food Science, School of Nutrition, UNIRIO, Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana E. C. Fai
- Food and Nutrition Graduate Program, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
- Department of Basic and Experimental Nutrition, Institute of Nutrition, State University of Rio de Janeiro, UERJ, Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
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Zhang N, Li X, Ye J, Yang Y, Huang Y, Zhang X, Xiao M. Effect of Gellan Gum and Xanthan Gum Synergistic Interactions and Plasticizers on Physical Properties of Plant-Based Enteric Polymer Films. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12010121. [PMID: 31948039 PMCID: PMC7023006 DOI: 10.3390/polym12010121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanical and barrier properties of plant-based enteric polymer films were enhanced by synergistic interactions between binary gum mixtures and adding plasticizers. The results indicated that the best ratio of gellan gum (GG) and xanthan gum (XG) was 7:3 by comparing tensile strength, tensile elongation, transmittance, and water vapor permeability of plant-based enteric polymer films and rheological properties of solutions. Polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG-400) was an effective plasticizer in improving plasticity and water vapor barrier property of the plant-based enteric polymer film. Rheology measurement and different characterization methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, were used to explain interactions between GG and XG as well as PEG-400 and components of the film. The new mixed system, composed of GG/XG mixture with ratio of 7:3 as a novel gelling agent and PEG-400 as a plasticizer, was applied to prepare plant-based enteric hard capsules, which have potential applications in medicines and functional food preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
- Correspondence: (N.Z.); (M.X.)
| | - Xiaohui Li
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Jing Ye
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
| | - Yucheng Yang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
| | - Yayan Huang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
| | - Xueqin Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
| | - Meitian Xiao
- College of Chemical Engineering, Huaqiao University, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China; (X.L.); (J.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Y.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xiamen Engineering and Technological Research Center for Comprehensive Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei Road, Jimei District, Xiamen 361021, Fujian, China
- Correspondence: (N.Z.); (M.X.)
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Abstract
Natural polymers have been widely investigated for the development of eco-friendly materials. Among these bio-polymers, cactus mucilage is attracting increasing interest regardless of the plant species or the plant organ used for extraction. Mucilage, which is a highly branched heteropolysaccharide, has been previously studied for its chemical composition, structural features, and biotechnological applications. This review highlights the mucilage application in the food packaging industry, by developing films and coatings. These cactus-based biomaterials will be discussed for their functional properties and their potential in preserving food quality and extending shelf life.
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