Extraction process optimization of Murraya koenigii leaf extracts and antioxidant properties

The study was intended to optimise the process variables such as extraction time and solvent concentration to maximize the yield of Murraya koenigii leaf extract and total phenolic content using response surface methodology. The experimental design was conducted for independent factor such as acetone, ethanol, methanol (20-80%) and time (20-100 min). The optimal conditions as the quadratic model were retained through central composite design. All the variables showed significant influence on extract yield and total phenolic content of M. koenigii leaf extract. The optimized conditions of extract were attained as 50% of ethanol, 60% acetone, 80% methanol and further analysed for their DPPH scavenging activity, total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and ferric reducing activity. Extract obtained with 50% ethanol showed highest DPPH scavenging activity and total phenolic content while 60% acetonic extract exhibited highest ferric reducing activity and flavonoid content.

Effect of spray drying on physical properties of sugarcane juice powder (Saccharum officinarum L.)

The aim of the present study was to investigate the spray drying behavior of sugarcane juice with (PSJ) and without (CSJ) citric acid the effects of different levels (10-50%) of carrier agents (maltodextrin (MD), Gum Arabic, liquid glucose and carrot fiber) at varying operating conditions of inlet and outlet temperature and feed concentration during spray drying was also studied. Spray dried powders from PSJ and CSJ were analyzed for physical properties such as wettability, cohesiveness, dispersibility, flowability, hygroscopicity, particle morphology etc. Different correlations between product recovery and operating conditions were obtained. Amongst the different carrier agents used maltodextrin (30%) proved to be the best in terms of sensory properties and product yield. Spray dried powder without citric acid (PSJ) proved to be superior in terms of porosity, flowability and other reconstitution properties with low hygroscopicity. Moreover PSJ powder revealed regular spherical shape with smooth surface and less agglomeration between particles.

Quality characteristics and antioxidant properties of breads incorporated with pomegranate whole fruit bagasse

The aim of this work was to determine the quality characteristics (physical and chemical), total phenols (TPC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH Radical Scavenging method) of pomegranate whole fruit bagasse (PWB) incorporated bread. The pomegranate whole fruit bagasse powders were incorporated into yeast leavened bread at 5 g and 15 g levels (flour basis). The results showed that the mineral content varied and the antioxidant potential of breads was significantly improved. The highest increase in antioxidant potential was measured in the breads made with 15 g w/w PWB.

Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Physicochemical Properties of Brown Rice

Brown rice was exposed to 60Co source at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 kGy doses and the effect of gamma irradiation treatment on physicochemical properties were investigated. L* value of brown rice was decreased with increase of irradiation dose, whereas a* and b* values increased. The results showed the decrease of kernel hardness, amylose content and pasting properties considerably with irradiation treatment. A-type diffraction pattern was observed in non-irradiated and irradiated rice samples and crystallinity was decreased with irradiation dose. Raman spectrometry showed the decrease of Raman band intensity at higher irradiation doses. Thermal properties of rice samples were decreased slightly after irradiation treatment. Pearson’s correlation studies revealed that irradiation dose was positively correlated with b* value and negatively correlated with amylose content and pasting properties.

Effect of puffing on physical and antioxidant properties of brown rice

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of puffing process on the physical, antioxidant properties and mineral composition of brown rice. Bulk density significantly varied (P<0.05) among the puffing stages and was lowest in expanded rice. From Hunter colour analysis, the lowest L(∗) value and highest a(∗) and b(∗) values were observed for parboiled rice (P<0.05). A-type of diffraction pattern, observed in raw rice was altered by puffing process and led to the formation of B- and V-type patterns. Raman spectrum showed the intense peaks in raw rice and the intensity of those peaks was decreased during the puffing process. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a highly porous structure of expanded rice kernel. Significant decrease in the antioxidant properties was observed upon puffing process as compared to raw rice samples. Hence the present study demonstrates that the puffing process leads to the significant changes in the properties of brown rice.