Effect of different pretreatment methods on the stability of pumpkin seed milk and potential mechanism

Pumpkin seeds represent a valuable source of plant protein and can be utilized in the production of plant-based milks. This study aims to investigate the effects of different pretreatment techniques on the stability of Pumpkin Seed Milk (PSM) and explore potential mechanisms. Raw pumpkin seeds underwent pretreatment through roasting, microwaving, and steaming to prepare PSM. Physiochemical attributes such as composition, storage stability, and particle size of PSM were evaluated. Results indicate that stability significantly improved at roasting temperatures of 160 °C, with the smallest particle size (305 ± 40 nm) and highest stability coefficient (0.710 ± 0.002) observed. Nutrient content in PSM remained largely unaffected at 160 °C. Protein oxidation levels, infrared, and fluorescence spectra analysis revealed that higher temperatures exacerbated the oxidation of pumpkin seed emulsion. Overall, roasting raw pumpkin seeds at 160 °C is suggested to enhance PSM quality while preserving nutrient content.