Advanced physical-based techniques for the extraction and modification of plant protein: mechanisms, functions, and...

Plant-based proteins are receiving focus primarily due to their cultural, animal welfare, and environmental advantages. Despite accounting for approximately one-third of global dietary protein intake, plant proteins remain underutilized. This review introduces an innovative "mechanism-function-application" framework that emphasizes novel combinations of technologies, including pulsed electric fields, ultrasound-assisted methods, reversed micelle extraction techniques, cold plasma treatment, and fibrillation of amyloid proteins. Furthermore, this research assesses the influence of these technologies on protein functionality and highlights their technical feasibility. The advancement of food processing technology and the increasing competitiveness of the plant protein market are evident in the emerging applications of modified plant proteins in areas such as bioactive peptides, food additives, and biodegradable materials. Additionally, several research gaps concerning plant proteins have been identified, including evaluations of protein raw materials, standardization of production processes, and the establishment of comprehensive databases.