Yingxue Hu
University of Saskatchewan, Canada
Title: Functional properties of flaxseed gum solutions
Biography
Biography: Yingxue Hu
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: There is a considerable interest in the health benefits and functional properties of flaxseed products. Flaxseed gum (FG), a byproduct of flaxseed meal production, has been widely studied in food production as thickener, emulsifier and foaming agent. FG can be recovered from seed hull by hot-water extraction. Due to the complicated polymer structure of FG and the presence of bioactive compounds, it is predictable that extraction temperature might play an important role in determining FG appearance, physicochemical properties and functional properties. In addition, extraction conditions might also determine the FG quality during storage. The persistence of FG qualities and functional performance during storage are critical in determining its commercial value and utility. Therefore, this research compares the functional properties of FG solutions prepared at two temperatures and the stability of these properties with storage.
The purpose of this study is to investigate effects of hot-water extraction on the functional properties of crude flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L. var. CDC Bethune) gum solutions by analyzing foaming, emulsification properties, and gum viscosity as well as tolerance to salt addition and a freeze-thaw cycle. In addition, changes in the appearance of gum solutions during storage at 4 ºC were also investigated to determine the impact of extraction temperature on gum stability and functional properties. Findings: FG prepared by extraction at 98 ºC had lower initial viscosity than FG extracted at 70 ºC but better stability of viscosity during storage. FG solutions prepared by extraction at either temperature exhibited similar tolerance to salt addition and freeze-thaw cycles. Moreover, the higher extraction temperature produced FG solution with superior foaming and emulsification properties and those properties were also more stable. Foams and emulsions produced by from FG extracted at higher temperature also had better stability during utilization. Conclusion & Significance: By summarizing all findings in this study, FG solution prepared by extraction at 98 ºC had better and more consistent characteristics including viscosity, foamability, and emulsification properties than FG produced at 70 ºC. Therefore, although higher temperature extraction requires more energy the FG solution is more stable properties and potentially more commercially valuable.