Isolation of Protein Concentrate from Defatted Kernels of Balanites aegyptiaca Seeds and Investigation of its Functional Properties

Abstract

The aim of this study was to produce protein concentrate from the defatted kernel seeds of Balanites aegyptiaca and investigate its functional properties. The proximate chemical composition of the kernel seeds was determined. The results showed that the moisture, ash, crude protein, oil, and total carbohydrate contents were 3.89, 3.40, 42.41, 40.24 and 10.06% respectively. Protein concentrate was isolated by using alkaline extraction method which followed by isoelectric precipitation and freeze drying. The results showed that the protein concentrate was 63.46%. Furthermore, the functional properties of Balanites aegyptiaca protein concentrate were examined. The results displayed that the water (WAC) and oil (OAC) absorption capacities were 2.21% and 2.68%, respectively. The minimum solubility of the protein concentrate was obtained at pH 4.5, while the maximum protein solubility was achieved at pH 9.0. In addition, the emulsion capacity (EC) and the foaming capacity (FC) were determined and the findings demonstrated that they were completely pH-dependent. The minimum values of both emulsion and foaming capacities were obtained at pH 4.5 while maximum emulsion capacity was obtained at pH 9.0 and maximum foaming capacity was found at pH 11.0.