Structural, functional characteristics and diverse applications of galactomannans: A comprehensive review

Galactomannans (GMs) are regarded as natural and abundantly found polysaccharides in legumes with multidimensional applications in food processing. GMs have a chemical structure comprised of beta-(1-4) -mannose, or mannose, and a single unit of galactose side chain connected through an alpha -1,6-glycosidic bond at different intervals in the linear structural arrangement. Some GMs also contain glucose units in their structure viz. modified galactomammans, GMs from fenugreek etc. GMs find potential applications in food, pharmaceutical, biomedical and cosmetic industries due to their excellent thickening, stabilizing, emulsifying, binding, and gelling properties. Furthermore, GMs are used in beverages, dairy, and meat-based products due to their beneficial effects on bioavailability, protection against degradation, and reduced adverse effects. Moreover, drug delivery, additive modification, and nanoformulation are some of their potential applications. These are non-toxic and cost-effective due to their derivation from renewable sources and exhibit biodegradable, biocompatible, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Researchers have recently focused on utilizing GMs as a promising material for synthesizing nanomaterials and formulations to deliver pharmaceutical and bioactive components effectively. The review, therefore, discusses structural and functional properties of GMs and their extraction methodologies for potential industrial applications.