Extraction and characterization of bioactive oligosaccharides from pulse processing byproducts using subcritical...

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Biotechnology
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Insoluble fiber from pulse protein extraction is a significant byproduct.
• Valorization of agricultural byproducts is crucial for sustainable food systems.
• Bioactive oligosaccharides possess significant nutraceutical potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the conversion of insoluble fiber from black bean and lentil byproducts into bioactive oligosaccharides.
• To optimize subcritical water extraction (SWE) conditions for oligosaccharide production.
• To assess the composition and potential prebiotic activity of the generated oligosaccharides.

Main Methods:

• Subcritical water extraction (SWE) was employed to treat insoluble fiber from black bean and lentil protein extraction.
• Extraction temperatures (120, 160, 200 °C) and times (up to 1 hour) were screened.
• Oligosaccharide profiles were analyzed, and their ability to support the growth of select probiotic bacteria was evaluated.

Main Results:

• SWE at 200 °C yielded a diverse oligosaccharide profile, particularly rich in pentose-oligosaccharides.
• Oligosaccharide recovery yields reached 10.9% and 9.6% (g/g) from bean and lentil fibers, respectively.
• Extracts contained hemicellulose-derived oligosaccharides (xylose, galactose, arabinose) and supported the growth of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.

Conclusions:

• Subcritical water extraction is an effective method for valorizing pulse insoluble fiber byproducts.
• SWE produces oligosaccharide-rich extracts with potential prebiotic and nutraceutical applications.
• This study demonstrates a sustainable approach to converting agricultural waste into high-value functional ingredients.