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FC Notes Haider
FOOD CHEMISTRY-II
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Food Chemistry
Food science deals with the physical, chemical, and biological properties of foods as they relate
to stability, cost, quality, processing, safety, nutritive value, wholesomeness, and convenience. It is an interdisciplinary
field, primarily involving microbiology, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Food chemistry, a major aspect of food
science, focuses on the composition and properties of food and the chemical changes it undergoes during handling,
processing, and storage. Food chemistry is intimately related to various scientific disciplines and is concerned with
biological substances in non-living states, especially during food preservation and processing.
Chiral carbon
A chiral carbon atom is one that can exist in two different spatial arrangements (configurations). Chiral carbon
atoms have four different groups attached to them.
Monosaccharides
Monosaccharides are carbohydrate molecules that cannot be broken down into simpler carbohydrate molecules
by hydrolysis, so they are sometimes referred to as simple sugars. They are the monomeric units that are joined
together to form larger structures, namely, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides which can be converted into their
constituent monosaccharides by hydrolysis.
(o) This shorthand way of indicating monosaccharide structures is called the Rosanoff method.
d-Glucose
d-Glucose is both a polyalcohol and an aldehyde. It is classified as an aldose. d-Glucose is the only free aldose
usually present in natural foods, and that too only in small amounts.
Structural Isomerization: Structural isomerization involves changing the arrangement of atoms within the
monosaccharide molecule. This can result in the formation of different types of monosaccharides. There are three
common types of structural isomerization:
a) Chain isomerization
b) Functional Group Isomerization
c) Ring Isomerization
Chain Isomerization: Chain isomers have the same molecular formula but differ in the linear arrangement of
atoms. For example, glucose and galactose are chain isomers because they have the same chemical formula (C6H12O6)
but differ in the arrangement of hydroxyl groups around the carbon atoms.
Functional Group Isomerization: Functional group isomers have the same molecular formula but differ in the
functional groups present. For example, glucose and fructose are functional group isomers. Glucose is an aldehyde,
while fructose is a ketone, even though they both have the same formula (C6H12O6).
Ring Isomerization: Ring isomerization involves changing the ring structure of a monosaccharide. An example is
the conversion of glucose from its linear form to its cyclic form (pyranose ring) or its open-chain form. This isomerization
occurs through a process known as mutarotation.
Stereoisomerization:
Stereo isomerization involves changing the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule without changing the
overall connectivity of the atoms. In the context of monosaccharides, stereo isomerization is especially significant
because it can influence the biological activity and properties of sugars. There are two common types of stereo
isomerization:
(a) Enantiomerization
(b) Diastereomerization
Enantiomerization: Enantiomers are mirror-image isomers, and they differ in the spatial arrangement of atoms,
particularly around chiral (asymmetric) carbon atoms. Common examples of enantiomers in monosaccharides are D-
glucose and L-glucose.
Diastereomerization: Diastereomers are stereoisomers that are not mirror images of each other. They have
different arrangements around one or more chiral carbon atoms. An example is the conversion between the alpha and
Linear Form: In an aqueous solution, glucose primarily exists in its linear form, which is an aldehyde (in the case of
glucose) or a ketone (in the case of fructose). The linear form contains an open-chain structure.
Ring Formation (Cyclization): In the presence of water, monosaccharides like glucose can undergo a reaction known as
cyclization. This process results in the formation of a hemiacetal or hemiketal ring structure.
For glucose, the ring form is a six-membered ring known as a pyranose ring. In the case of glucose, the aldehyde group
(C1) reacts with one of the hydroxyl groups, typically the hydroxyl group on the fifth carbon (C5), to form a hemiacetal
linkage. This results in the formation of a six-membered ring.
In the case of fructose, a similar process occurs, but it forms a five-membered ring known as a furanose ring.
Anomers: When a monosaccharide forms a ring structure, it can exist in two different anomeric forms, known as
anomers. These anomers are defined by the position of the hydroxyl group at the first carbon (anomeric carbon) with
respect to the ring structure. The two possible anomers are the alpha (α) and beta (β) forms. They differ in the
orientation of the hydroxyl group on the anomeric carbon.
• In the alpha form, the hydroxyl group on the anomeric carbon is oriented downward from the ring.
• In the beta form, the hydroxyl group on the anomeric carbon is oriented upward from the ring.
The formation of the ring structure is an equilibrium process, meaning that both the linear and ring forms coexist in
a dynamic equilibrium. The ratio between the alpha and beta anomers can be influenced by factors such as temperature
and ph.
Reactions
• Caramelization
• Non-enzymatic browning
• Acrylamide formation
Maillard browning products, including soluble and insoluble polymers, are found where reducing sugars and amino
acids, proteins, and/or other nitrogen-containing compounds are heated together, for example, in soy sauce and bread
crusts. Browning is desired in baking, for example, in bread crusts and cookies, and roasting of meats. The volatile
Caramelization
Caramelization is a non-enzymatic browning reaction unlike the Maillard reaction, which involves the reaction
between amino acids and reducing sugars, caramelization specifically involves the heating of sugars, typically sucrose, in
the absence of proteins or amino acids. that occurs when sugar, typically sucrose, is heated in the absence of proteins or
amino acids. It results in the thermal decomposition of sugar molecules, leading to the development of a characteristic
brown color, rich flavor, and aroma. There are four recognized classes of caramel.
Acrylamide formation
Acrylamide formation is a chemical reaction that occurs when certain foods, particularly those high in
carbohydrates, are cooked at high temperatures, typically above 120°C (248°F). During this process, acrylamide, a
potentially harmful chemical compound, is produced. Acrylamide formation is a result of the Maillard reaction, which is
the reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids in the presence of heat.
Acrylamide is considered a potential carcinogen, and its presence in foods has raised concerns related to food
safety. Foods that are commonly associated with acrylamide formation include potato products (such as French fries and
potato chips), baked goods (like bread and cookies), and roasted coffee beans. Efforts are made in the food industry to
minimize acrylamide formation through various cooking and processing techniques.
Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates composed of multiple sugar molecules linked
together. These macromolecules serve various roles, such as energy storage (e.g., starch in plants) and structural
support (e.g., cellulose in plant cell walls). In the context of food, polysaccharides often contribute to texture, viscosity,
and overall functionality in formulations. Polysaccharides can be homogeneous (composed of a single sugar type) or
heterogeneous (containing different monosaccharide units.
Starch
Starch, a unique carbohydrate with distinctive chemical and physical properties, serves as the primary food
reserve in plants, supplying 70–80% of human calorie intake globally. Derived from sources like corn, wheat, rice, potato,
and cassava, commercial starches find extensive use in diverse food applications, showcasing properties such as
adhesive, binding, gelling, and thickening. Another feature is the presence of two polymers, amylose, and amylopectin,
within most starch granules.
⬧ Amylose
Amylose is a linear polysaccharide, a type of starch, characterized by its straight-chain structure. Comprising
glucose units linked by alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds, amylose is relatively unbranched, forming a helical structure.
It contributes to the viscosity and thickening properties of starch when heated.
⬧ Amylopectin:
Amylopectin is a highly branched polysaccharide and a component of starch. Unlike amylose, amylopectin
features a branched structure with alpha-1,6-glycosidic bonds, allowing for a more complex, tree-like
arrangement. This branching imparts unique functional properties to starch, influencing its ability to form gels
and contribute to the texture of various food products.
Hydrolysis in starch
Hydrolysis in starch involves breaking glycosidic bonds through hot acid treatment, producing acid-modified
starches with improved dispersibility. Complete hydrolysis yields dextrins used for adhesion in candies, while
enzymatic processes create maltodextrins, maltose, and d-glucose for diverse food applications.
Lipids
Lipids are a diverse group of compounds soluble in organic solvents, known as fats or oils in
Supercooling in Lipids: In lipids, supercooling can affect the formation of lipid crystals, leading to variations in
texture and stability, as lipids may remain in a liquid state below their typical solidification temperature.
Nucleation in Lipids: Nucleation in lipids involves the initial clustering of lipid molecules during crystallization,
influencing the size and distribution of lipid crystals and, consequently, the physical properties of fats and oils
in food.
Crystal Growth in Lipids: Lipid crystal growth is the process wherein lipids increase in size within the
crystalline structure, impacting the overall texture and structural characteristics of lipid-based food products.
Crystal Structure in Lipids: The crystal structure of lipids determines the arrangement of fatty acid chains and
influences properties such as melting point and texture in fats, playing a crucial role in defining the functional
characteristics of lipid-based materials.
Polymorphism in Lipids: Lipid polymorphism refers to the ability of lipid molecules to adopt different crystal
structures, influencing the physical properties of fats and oils in food, including their stability, texture, and
suitability for various culinary and industrial applications.
PROCESSING
Isolation: Lipids are initially isolated from their natural sources, such as plants or animals, through processes
like extraction or pressing, separating them from other components like proteins, carbohydrates, and water.
Purification: Purification follows isolation, aiming to remove impurities and unwanted substances from the
extracted lipids. This step often involves techniques like filtration, centrifugation, or solvent-based methods to
obtain a more refined lipid extract.
Modification: Lipid modification is a customizable step where the composition or structure of lipids is altered
to achieve specific desired properties. This can include processes like interesterification, hydrogenation, or
fractionation, allowing for tailoring the functional characteristics of the lipids to meet specific needs.
Refining - Degumming: Refining is a critical step to enhance the quality of lipids. Degumming is a specific
refining process where impurities like phospholipids, known as gums, are removed from the lipid mixture. This
Blending: The simplest method to alter fatty acid composition and melting profile is by blending fats with different
triacylglycerol compositions. This practice is performed in products such as frying oils and margarines.
Fractionation: in altering the Solid Fat Content (SFC) of food lipids involves selectively separating and isolating
specific components, such as saturated and unsaturated fats, to achieve desired SFC profiles. This process
allows for the customization of lipid characteristics, influencing the texture and properties of food products.
Hydrogenation is a chemical process that adds hydrogen to double bonds. The process is used to alter lipids so they
are more solid at room temperature, exhibit different crystallization behavior (by making the triacylglycerol composition
more homogenous), and/or are more oxidatively stable.
Interesterification is a chemical procedure where acyl groups within triacylglycerols are reorganized. Typically
a random process, it leads to the creation of a triacylglycerol profile distinct from the original lipid.
Function of Triacylglycerols in Foods:
Triacylglycerols, the primary components of fats and oils, significantly impact food quality, influencing texture,
appearance, and flavor. Their functionality involves intricate roles in determining the textural, visual, and taste
attributes of various food products.
Flavor:
Triacylglycerols indirectly influence flavor by carrying volatile compounds and natural impurities, contributing to the
distinctive taste of fats and oils. The partitioning of flavor compounds between oil, water, and gaseous regions within
the food matrix is influenced by lipid composition.
Texture:
Lipids intricately shape the texture of food products. In liquid oils, viscosity dominates, while in partially crystalline fats,
like those in chocolate, the concentration, morphology, and interactions of fat crystals play a key role, determining
properties such as spreadability, stability, and mouthfeel.
Appearance:
The appearance of food products is profoundly affected by the presence of lipids. In bulk oils, color is determined by
pigment impurities, while solid fats exhibit optical opacity due to light scattering by fat crystals. Food emulsions appear
• Texture Modification: The adjustment of Solid Fat Content (SFC) significantly impacts the mouthfeel and melting
characteristics of food products, especially evident in chocolate production. This process is crucial for achieving
the desired sensory experience for consumers.
• Consistency Control: Altering SFC is a common practice in the production of margarine, spreads, and bakery
fats. It serves the purpose of maintaining the consistency and stability of these products under various storage
conditions, ensuring they remain spreadable and possess the desired texture.
• Extended Shelf Life: Another significant outcome of modifying SFC is its contribution to the extended shelf life of
food products. By preventing the crystallization of fats and oils, undesirable changes in product quality are
mitigated, leading to increased durability and consumer satisfaction.
• Formulation Control: Food manufacturers utilize SFC modification as a precise tool for controlling the properties
of their products. This ensures that the final offerings meet both consumer expectations and regulatory
standards, providing a high degree of formulation control.
Blending
• Selecting Fats and Oils: Blending involves the careful selection of fats that are solid at room temperature, such
as palm oil, and oils that are liquid at room temperature, like soybean oil. This strategic selection sets the stage
for achieving the desired physical properties in the final product.
• Mixing and Homogenizing: The process of blending extends beyond the selection of fats and oils; it includes
meticulous mixing and homogenizing to ensure an even distribution of these components throughout the blend.
This step is vital for achieving uniform texture and consistency in the end product.
• Controlling SFC: The key objective of blending is to control the Solid Fat Content by adjusting the ratios of solid
and liquid fats in the blend. This meticulous control is employed across a wide range of food products, including
baked goods, spreads, confectionery, and dairy products, to attain the desired texture, stability, and mouthfeel.
Fractionation
Hydrogenation
• Adding Hydrogen: Hydrogenation is a process where hydrogen gas is added to unsaturated fats to make them
more saturated. This conversion turns liquid oils into semi-solid or solid fats, contributing to improved texture
and shelf life. Hydrogenation is commonly used in the food industry for creating fats with desirable physical
characteristics.
Interesterification
• Fatty Acid Rearrangement: Interesterification is a process where the fatty acids in different fats are rearranged
to achieve a specific SFC profile. This is done by chemically modifying the fats to create fats with desirable
melting and solidification properties. Interesterification is a valuable tool for customizing the texture and
stability of fats and oils in food products.
Lipolysis
• Natural Fat Breakdown: Lipolysis is the natural breakdown of fats into their component fatty acids. This process
can significantly influence the texture and flavor of food products. Lipolysis is often employed in cheese aging to
develop unique flavors and in some confectionery to create a smoother texture.
Auto-oxidation
• Oxygen Reaction: Auto-oxidation is a chemical reaction where fats or oils react with oxygen in the air, leading to
spoilage and the development of off-flavors. This reaction can negatively impact the quality and shelf life of food
products. To prevent auto-oxidation, antioxidants are crucially added to the fats and oils, safeguarding their
quality and extending their shelf life.
Lipid Oxidation:
Lipid oxidation, often termed autooxidation, is a self-acting process generating free radicals from unsaturated fatty acids
in the presence of oxygen. Initiation involves hydrogen abstraction from unsaturated fatty acids, leading to a single free
radical. While the subsequent propagation step with peroxyl radicals doesn't increase free radicals, the observed lag
phase followed by rapid exponential increase implies additional reactions producing free radicals. Prooxidants, present
in most foods, accelerate lipid oxidation by direct interaction with unsaturated fatty acids or by promoting free radical
formation. Notable prooxidants include LOXs, singlet oxygen, transition metals, and UV light, influencing the overall
process and contributing to rancidity.
Initiation:
▪ Involves hydrogen abstraction from fatty acids, forming alkyl radicals.
▪ Alkyl radicals stabilize through double bond delocalization, producing cis or trans configurations.
▪ Susceptibility to oxidation increases with higher unsaturation, with linoleic acid more prone than oleic acid.
Propagation:
▪ Begins with the addition of oxygen to the alkyl radical, forming peroxyl radicals.
▪ Peroxyl radicals promote hydrogen abstraction, resulting in the formation of fatty acid hydroperoxides.
▪ Reaction propagates from one fatty acid to another.
Termination:
▪ Describes the combination of two radicals, forming nonradical species.
▪ Under atmospheric conditions, termination may occur between peroxyl and alkoxyl radicals.
▪ In low oxygen environments (e.g., frying oils), termination can occur between alkyl radicals, forming fatty acid
dimers.
Phytosterols:
Phytosterols are plant-derived compounds with a structure similar to cholesterol. Found in various plant-based
foods, they are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties. Phytosterols compete with cholesterol
absorption in the intestine, helping to reduce overall cholesterol levels. Incorporating phytosterol-rich foods,
such as nuts and seeds, into the diet can contribute to heart health
Carotenoids
: Carotenoids are pigments found in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria that contribute to the vibrant
colors of fruits and vegetables. These compounds, including beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene, serve as
antioxidants in the human body. Carotenoids play a crucial role in supporting eye health, immune function, and
overall well-being. Consuming a diverse range of colorful fruits and vegetables ensures a varied intake of
carotenoids.
Fatty Acids:
Naming Conventions: Based on carbon chain length and double bonds.
Examples: Palmitic acid, oleic acid.
Phospholipids:
Structure: Glycerol backbone with a phosphate group.
Naming: Based on attached groups (e.g., phosphatidylcholine).
Components:
Polar Head Group: Contains a phosphate group (PO4) and a glycerol molecule.
Fatty Acid Tails: Two long hydrophobic fatty acid tails, composed of hydrocarbon chains (14 to 24 C), either
saturated or unsaturated.
Sphingolipids:
Structure: Named after sphingosine backbone with a long-chain amino alcohol.
Components: Contains a hydrophobic alkyl chain and a hydrophilic amino group.
Functions: Important in cell membranes, signaling pathways, blood type determination, and nervous system
function.
Examples: Sphingomyelin, ceramide.
Steroids:
Structure: Based on four interconnected carbon rings.
Composition: Composed of a 17-carbon skeleton, with a methyl (CH3) group at one end and a functional
group (e.g., ketone, alcohol, or aldehyde) at the other end.
Examples: Cholesterol, cortisol, estrogen.
Roles: Essential in physiological processes, including the regulation of metabolism, immune response, and
reproduction.
Waxes:
Composition: Named by long-chain alcohol and fatty acid.
Example: Carnauba wax.
Structure: Consists of a long hydrophobic alkyl chain and a hydrophilic functional group.
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Food color, known as food dye or colorant, enhances visual appeal by altering the color of food and
beverages. It can be natural or synthetic, coming in various forms like liquids, gels, powders, or paste, offering
flexibility for creative culinary applications.
• Manufactured in laboratories.
• Identified by FD&C (Food, Drug, and Cosmetic) numbers, such as Red 40 or Yellow 5.
• Artificially created and not derived from natural sources like plants or fruits.
• Often used for precise and consistent coloring in various food products.
Dyes, soluble in liquids or solvents, are utilized to color materials that absorb and retain these molecules.
Lakes, crucial in food and cosmetics, are insoluble in water and are created by combining water-soluble dye
with an aluminum-based solid. Widely used in high-fat content products like chocolate, they provide stable
color dispersion, ensuring superior retention and enhancing visual appeal.
Pigments, insoluble in water and oil, are solid particles suspended in a medium to create colors. Versatile in
applications like paints, inks, plastics, cosmetics, and foods, they are notably stable in the food industry, used
for coloring dry products such as candy and cereals. Their resilience to environmental factors ensures
prolonged color vibrancy in various edibles.
Occurrence:
▪ Hemoglobin: Predominantly found in red blood cells (erythrocytes), hemoglobin is essential for oxygen
transport in the bloodstream.
▪ Myoglobin: Located in muscle tissues, particularly skeletal and cardiac muscles, myoglobin functions to
store and transport oxygen within muscle cells.
▪ Cytochromes: These proteins, containing heme, are integral to electron transport chains. Distributed
across cellular compartments, they contribute significantly to energy production and various metabolic
reactions, exemplified by mitochondrial cytochromes.
▪ Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: Found in the endoplasmic reticulum, these heme-containing enzymes
play a vital role in the metabolism of drugs, toxins, and various endogenous compounds.
▪ Heme-containing Enzymes: Acting as cofactors, heme participates in enzymes like catalase and
peroxidase, contributing to antioxidant defense and the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.
Structure:
▪ Heme Group: The heme group consists of a central iron (Fe) atom coordinated within a planar porphyrin ring.
The iron atom can exist in either the ferrous (Fe2+) or ferric (Fe3+) state, depending on its oxidation state.
▪ Protein Binding: In heme-containing proteins, the heme group is bound to a specific protein structure. This
protein-heme complex determines the molecule's function
Functionality:
Hemoglobin:
Myoglobin:
Cytochromes:
▪ Metabolism: These enzymes play a pivotal role in the metabolism of various compounds, including
drugs, steroids, and fatty acids.
Heme-containing Enzymes:
▪ Catalysis: Enzymes like catalase and peroxidase utilize heme to catalyze reactions involved in the
breakdown of hydrogen peroxide and the detoxification of reactive oxygen species.
Stability:
Heme-containing proteins generally maintain stability under physiological conditions, with a limited range of
temperature and pH. However, exposure to extreme factors such as high heat, strong acids or bases, or
oxidative agents can lead to denaturation and loss of functionality in these proteins.
Occurrence:
▪ Green Plants: Found in the chloroplasts of cells, chlorophyll is most commonly associated with green
plants, serving a vital role in photosynthesis.
▪ Algae: Various types of algae display chlorophyll, contributing to their characteristic green coloration.
▪ Cyanobacteria: Also known as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria contain chlorophyll and are capable of
photosynthesis.
Structure:
Chlorophyll is a complex molecule featuring a porphyrin ring with a central magnesium atom. It exists in
various forms, with chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b being the most common types, differing in their side-chain
structures.
Functionality:
▪ Photosynthesis: Chlorophyll plays a central role in photosynthesis, capturing light energy to convert
carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
▪ Energy Source: This process sustains growth and provides energy for organisms.
▪ Light Absorption: Chlorophyll molecules absorb light primarily in the blue and red regions of the
spectrum, utilizing this energy for chemical reactions.
Stability:
Light: Excessive light exposure, especially high-intensity sunlight, can lead to the degradation of chlorophyll
through a process called photo-damage.
Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both high and low, can impact chlorophyll stability and photosynthetic
efficiency.
pH: Changes in pH can affect the stability and activity of chlorophyll, as it functions optimally within a certain
pH range.
Disease and Stress: Disease, environmental stressors, and nutrient deficiencies can also affect chlorophyll
levels and overall plant health.
Carotenoids: Carotenoids, a diverse group of pigments found in various organisms, play crucial
roles in biology, including photosynthesis and acting as antioxidants.
Occurrence:
▪ Plants: Widespread in the plant kingdom, carotenoids are found in fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens,
exemplified by carrots (beta-carotene), tomatoes (lycopene), and spinach (lutein).
▪ Algae: Various algae types contain carotenoids, contributing to the diverse colors in aquatic
environments, with red algae containing astaxanthin.
▪ Bacteria: Some bacteria, including photosynthetic cyanobacteria and non-photosynthetic species,
produce carotenoids.
Structure: Carotenoids feature a long hydrocarbon chain with alternating single and double bonds,
characterized by a series of conjugated double bonds (polyene structure) responsible for their pigmentation.
The central part of a carotenoid molecule consists of a system of carbon atoms with double bonds, while the
ends may contain functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH) or keto (=O) groups.
Functionality:
Stability:
Occurrence:
• Fruits: Commonly found in fruits like grapes, cherries, blueberries, and blackberries, anthocyanins
contribute to vibrant colors.
• Flowers: Roses, tulips, and pansies, among others, contain anthocyanins giving them striking colors.
• Vegetables: Red cabbage and purple potatoes also contain anthocyanins, often in outer layers or peels.
• Leaves: Present in leaves, particularly during autumn, contributing to red and purple hues.
• Stems: Some species may have anthocyanins in stems and branches.
Structure: Anthocyanins consist of a central core with an attached sugar molecule, making them
glycosides. The core contains a chromophore, responsible for light absorption and color production. Various
structural forms (aglycones) exist based on chemical group variations attached to the core.
Functionality:
• Coloration: Primarily responsible for red, purple, and blue colors, anthocyanins attract pollinators, deter
herbivores, and protect plant tissues from UV radiation.
• Antioxidant Properties: As flavonoids, anthocyanins have antioxidant properties, neutralizing free
radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and potentially benefiting health.
• Health Benefits: Associated with potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic
diseases like heart disease and cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Stability:
• pH: Anthocyanins change color based on pH; acidic conditions appear red, while alkaline conditions
turn them blue or purple.
• Temperature: Heat can potentially degrade anthocyanins, causing color loss, though some are more
heat-stable.
• Light: Exposure to light may degrade anthocyanins, making them less stable in bright sunlight.
• Metal Ions: Certain metal ions, like iron and copper, can accelerate anthocyanin degradation.
• Preservation Methods: In the food industry, preservation methods such as canning, freezing, or
adding antioxidants aid in maintaining the color and stability of anthocyanin-containing products.
Betalains:
Occurrence:
Structure:
Betanins are glycosidic pigments with a chromophore (colored part) attached to a sugar molecule.
The chromophore in betanins comprises two aromatic rings connected by a nitrogen bridge, distinguishing
them from carotenoids and flavonoids. Different types of betanins result from variations in the attached sugar
molecule.
Functionality:
• Coloration: Primarily responsible for red and violet colors, betalains attract pollinators and aid in seed
dispersal.
• Antioxidant Properties: Betalains neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in plants,
potentially benefiting animals, including humans, when consumed.
• Health Benefits: Associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, though more research
is needed for a comprehensive understanding.
Stability:
• pH: Betanins are pH-sensitive, stable in acidic conditions but turning yellow in alkaline environments,
used in food processing for color variations.
• Heat: High temperatures can cause betanins to degrade, resulting in color loss, especially during heat
processing like boiling.
• Light: Exposure to light, especially UV light, can lead to betanin degradation, affecting color stability.
• Oxygen: Sensitive to oxidation, antioxidants are often added to minimize color degradation in betanin-
containing foods.
• Preservation Methods: Low-temperature storage, vacuum packaging, and antioxidant additions may
be employed for stability.
Certification and Approval: Certified food dyes undergo rigorous evaluation by regulatory agencies
like the FDA or EFSA to ensure their safety and suitability for use in foods.
➢ Color Characteristics:
These dyes offer a diverse range of colors, allowing food manufacturers to achieve various color options
in their products.
➢ Solubility and Distribution:
Most certified food dyes are water-soluble, facilitating easy dissolution in water-based products for
even distribution and consistent coloring.
Stability: