Search Results (1,405)

With the growth of the plant-based food sector, increasing amounts of by-products are generated. Sea buckthorn pomace (SBP), a by-product of juice and other manufacturing products, is rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics, oligosaccharides, proteins, and dietary fiber. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of modification methods, such as enzymatic hydrolysis and supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂), on the chemical composition and technological properties of SBP. SBP and SBP obtained after SFE-CO₂ (SBP-CO₂) were enzymatically modified using Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical, Viscozyme^® L, and Celluclast^® 1.5 L (Novozyme A/S, Bagsværd, Denmark). The SBP’s main constituent was insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), followed by crude proteins and lipids (respectively, 58.7, 21.1 and 12.6 g/100 in d.m.). SFE-CO₂ reduced the lipid content (by 85.7%) in the pomace while increasing protein and TDF content. Enzymatic hydrolysis decreased the content of both soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and IDF, and increased the content of mono- and oligosaccharides as well as free phenolics, depending on the commercial enzyme preparation used in SBP and SBP-CO₂ samples. Celluclast^® 1.5 L was the most effective in hydrolyzing IDF, while Viscozyme^® L and Pectinex^® Ultra Tropical were the most effective in degrading SDF. Enzymatic treatment improved water swelling capacity, water retention capacity, water solubility index, oil retention capacity of SBP and SBP-CO₂; however, it did not have a significant effect on the stability of the emulsions. Modification of SBP by SFE-CO₂ effectively increased WSC and WSI, however it reduced WRC. These findings highlight the potential of targeted modifications to enhance the nutritional and technological properties of SBP for functional food applications. Full article

Herein, a bi-functional composite photocatalyst was synthesized by integrating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) via a facile electrostatic self-assembly strategy. The resulting CNTs/GCN composite served dual roles as both a solid emulsifier and a photocatalyst, enabling highly efficient photocatalytic benzyl alcohol oxidation within a Pickering emulsion system. The relationship between emulsion droplet size and solid emulsifier dosage was investigated and optimized. The enhanced photocatalytic function was supported by an improved photocurrent response and reduced charge-transfer resistance, attributed to superior charge separation efficiency. Consequently, the benzyl alcohol conversion efficiency achieved in the Pickering emulsion system (58.9%) was three-fold of that observed in a traditional oil–water non-emulsion system (19.0%). Key active species were identified as photoholes, and an interfacial reaction mechanism was proposed. This work provides a new approach for extending photocatalytic applications in aqueous environments to diverse organic conversion reactions through the construction of multifunctional photocatalysts. Full article

The cosmetic industry is growing at an impressive rate worldwide. In the cosmetic field, natural-origin ingredients represent the new frontier in this industry. Among the main components of cosmetics, lipids, emulsifiers, rheological modifiers, preservatives, colorants, and antioxidants can be found. These compounds form emulsions, which are among the main cosmetic formulations. An important aspect in this regard is the evaluation of emulsions’ stability over time and emulsions’ production methodology. In this paper, a comparison is made between two emulsion production technologies, the Standard and the “One-Pot” methods, through the characterization of the raw material ABWAX^® Revomul, a multifunctional wax for cosmetic use which consists of a low-melting structuring wax of vegetal origin (Rhus wax) and a natural emulsifier (Polyglyceril-3 Stearate). First, we evaluated the affinity between the wax raw materials and emollients of different chemical nature; then, we analyzed the impact of the production method on the emulsions to identify similarities and differences. ABWAX^® Revomul demonstrated a high level of effectiveness in regard to stabilizing water-in-oil emulsions. This study suggests that from an industrial point of view, the application of the two procedures allows products with different characteristics to be obtained, consequently allowing a specific method to be chosen to obtain the desired product. Full article

The cosmetics industry has been seeking to develop products with renewable natural ingredients to reduce the use of or even replace synthetic substances. Biosurfactants can help meet this demand. These natural compounds are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic or have low toxicity, offering minimal risk to humans and the environment, which has attracted the interest of an emerging consumer market and, consequently, the cosmetics industry. The aim of the present study was to produce a biosurfactant from the yeast Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 cultivated in a mineral medium containing 10% soybean oil and 5% glucose. The biosurfactant reduced the surface tension of water from 72.0 ± 0.1 mN/m to 33.0 ± 0.3 mN/m after eight days of fermentation. The yield was 53.35 ± 0.39 g/L and the critical micelle concentration was 1000 mg/L. The biosurfactant proved to be a good emulsifier of oils used in cosmetic formulations, with emulsification indices ranging from 45.90 ± 1.69% to 68.50 ± 1.10%. The hydrophilic–lipophilic balance index demonstrated the wetting capacity of the biosurfactant and its tendency to form oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, with 50.0 ± 0.20% foaming capacity. The biosurfactant did not exhibit cytotoxicity in the MTT assay or irritant potential. Additionally, an antioxidant activity of 58.25 ± 0.32% was observed at a concentration of 40 mg/mL. The compound also exhibited antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic microorganisms. The characterisation of the biosurfactant using magnetic nuclear resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the biomolecule is a glycolipid with an anionic nature. The results demonstrate that biosurfactant produced in this work has potential as an active biotechnological ingredient for innovative, eco-friendly cosmetic formulations. Full article

An oat protein isolate is an ideal raw material for producing a wide range of plant-based products. However, oat protein exhibits weak functional properties, particularly in emulsification. Casein-based ingredients are commonly employed to enhance emulsifying properties as a general practice in the food industry. pH-shifting processing is a straightforward method to partially unfold protein structures. This study modified a mixture of an oat protein isolate (OPI) and casein by combining a pH adjustment (adjusting the pH of two solutions to 12, mixing them at a 3:7 ratio, and maintaining the pH at 12 for 2 h) with an atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment to improve the emulsifying properties. The results demonstrated that the ACP treatment significantly enhanced the solubility of the OPI/casein mixtures, with a maximum solubility of 82.63 ± 0.33%, while the ζ-potential values were approximately −40 mV, indicating that all the samples were fairly stable. The plasma-induced increase in surface hydrophobicity supported greater protein adsorption and redistribution at the oil/water interface. After 3 min of treatment, the interfacial pressure peaked at 8.32 mN/m. Emulsions stabilized with the modified OPI/casein mixtures also exhibited a significant droplet size reduction upon extending the ACP treatment to 3 min, decreasing from 5.364 ± 0.034 μm to 3.075 ± 0.016 μm. The resulting enhanced uniformity in droplet size distribution signified the formation of a robust interfacial film. Moreover, the ACP treatment effectively enhanced the emulsifying activity of the OPI/casein mixtures, reaching (179.65 ± 1.96 m²/g). These findings highlight the potential application value of OPI/casein mixtures in liquid dairy products. In addition, dairy products based on oat protein are more conducive to sustainable development than traditional dairy products. Full article

Oral delivery of hydrophobic compounds remains challenging due to their poor aqueous solubility and the potential toxicity associated with conventional surfactant-based emulsions. To address these issues, we present a surfactant-free encapsulation strategy using electrosprayed alginate hydrogel beads for the stable and controlled delivery of hydrophobic oils. Hydrophobic compounds were dispersed in high-viscosity alginate solutions without surfactants via ultrasonication, forming kinetically stable oil-in-water dispersions. These mixtures were electrosprayed into calcium chloride baths, yielding monodisperse hydrogel beads. Higher alginate concentrations improved droplet sphericity and suppressed phase separation by enhancing matrix viscosity. The resulting beads exhibited stimuli-responsive degradation and controlled release behavior in response to physiological ionic strength. Dense alginate networks delayed ion exchange and prolonged structural integrity, while elevated external ionic conditions triggered rapid disintegration and immediate payload release. This simple and scalable system offers a biocompatible platform for the oral delivery of lipophilic active compounds without the need for surfactants or complex fabrication steps. Full article

The rising demand for sustainable protein is driving interest in insects as a raw material for advanced food ingredients. This review collates and critically analyses over 300 studies on the conversion of crickets, mealworms, black soldier flies, and other farmed species into powders, protein isolates, oils, and chitosan-rich fibers with targeted techno-functional roles. This survey maps how thermal pre-treatments, blanch–dry–mill routes, enzymatic hydrolysis, and isoelectric solubilization–precipitation preserve or enhance the water- and oil-holding capacity, emulsification, foaming, and gelation, while also mitigating off-flavors, allergenicity, and microbial risks. A meta-analysis shows insect flours can absorb up to 3.2 g of water g⁻¹, stabilize oil-in-water emulsions for 14 days at 4 °C, and form gels with 180 kPa strength, outperforming or matching eggs, soy, or whey in specific applications. Case studies demonstrate a successful incorporation at 5–15% into bakery, meat analogs and dairy alternatives without sensory penalties, and chitin-derived chitosan films extend the bread shelf life by three days. Comparative life-cycle data indicate 45–80% lower greenhouse gas emissions and land use than equivalent animal-derived ingredients. Collectively, the evidence positions insect-based ingredients as versatile, safe, and climate-smart tools to enhance food quality and sustainability, while outlining research gaps in allergen mitigation, consumer acceptance, and regulatory harmonization. Full article

The replacement of animal fat with unsaturated lipid sources in processed meats enhances nutritional value but introduces challenges regarding oxidative stability and sensory acceptability. In this study, the effects of replacing pork back fat with pre-emulsified walnut, linseed, or algal oils on the proximate composition, fatty acid profile, nutritional indices, lipid oxidation, and sensory properties of chicken frankfurters were investigated. Four formulations were prepared: a control group (25% pork fat) and three groups that were completely reformulated using oil emulsions (ratio inulin/water/oil 1:2:1). The fat substitute significantly reduced total fat, SFA, cholesterol (up to 30%), and calorie density, while Ʃn-3 fatty acids were enriched (p < 0.05). The linseed oil samples had the highest levels of α-linolenic acid (47.53%), while the algal oil had the highest levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (10.98%) and docosahexaenoic acid (64.73%) and the most favourable Ʃn-6/Ʃn-3 ratio (p < 0.05). All reformulated groups showed significantly improved atherogenic and thrombogenic indices and increased hypocholesterolaemic/hypercholesterolaemic ratios, which reached 17.43 in the algal oil samples (p < 0.05). Lipid oxidation was increased in the linseed and algal oil treatments, with the walnut oil group showing moderate TBARS levels and minimal accumulation of secondary oxidation products. Principal component analysis revealed that walnut oil offered the most balanced compromise between nutritional improvement, oxidative stability and sensory acceptability. These findings support a healthier reformulation of meat products by identifying oil-based fat substitutes that improve nutritional value without compromising sensory quality, which is beneficial for both research and industry. Full article

In the search for alternative protein sources, single cell proteins have gained increasing attention in recent years. Among them, proteins derived from yeast represent a promising but still underexplored option. To enable their application in food product design, their techno-functional properties must be understood. In order to investigate the impact of precipitation pH on their emulsion-stabilizing properties, yeast proteins from Saccharomyces cerevisiae were isolated via precipitation at different pH (pH 3.5 to 5) after cell disruption in the high-pressure homogenizer. Emulsions containing 5 wt% oil and ~1 wt% protein were analyzed for stability based on their droplet size distribution. Proteins precipitated at pH 3.5 stabilized the smallest oil droplets and prevented partitioning of the emulsion, outperforming proteins precipitated at higher pH values. It is hypothesized that precipitation under acidic conditions induces protein denaturation and thereby exposes hydrophobic regions that enhance adsorption at the oil–water interface and the stabilization of the dispersed oil phase. To investigate the stabilization mechanism, the molecular weight of the proteins was determined using SDS-PAGE, their solubility using Bradford assay, and their aggregation behavior using static laser scattering. Proteins precipitated at pH 3.5 possessed larger molecular weights, lower solubility, and a strong tendency to aggregate. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of yeast-derived proteins as bio-surfactants and suggest that pH-controlled precipitation can tailor their functionality in food formulations. Full article

The objective of this study was to develop a novel sauce formulation in which egg yolk was substituted with pea and soy proteins, in addition to the incorporation of tomato pomace as a functional ingredient. Nine experimental samples (E1–E3, S1–S3, and P1–P3) and three control samples (E0, S0, and P0) were prepared, corresponding to three protein sources (E: egg yolk, S: soy, P: pea), with increasing concentrations of tomato pomace (0, 2, 4, and 6%). The formulations were adjusted proportionally in terms of water and oil to maintain the desired consistency. The analyses performed included: physico-chemical analysis of the sauce (fat content, peroxide value, and CIE L* a* b* color determination), quality assessment using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR, rheological measurements, and microstructural evaluation. The sample designated P2 demonstrated a notable correlation with favourable parameters, exhibiting intense colouration, elevated protein content, and consistent rheological properties. However, at higher levels of tomato pomace (notably 6%), microstructural instability was observed, which may limit the formulation’s robustness over time. These findings demonstrate that tomato pomace can enhance the functional and structural characteristics of sauce, while also highlighting the importance of optimizing concentration levels to avoid negative impacts on emulsion stability. Overall, the results support the use of tomato pomace and plant proteins in the formulation of sustainable and innovative food products. Full article

The production of water-in-water emulsion droplets, the coalescence of which is prevented by adding oil-in-water micrometric droplets, is reported. Hexadecane (O) and cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) were added to a W/W emulsion made of dextran (Dex)-enriched droplets in a Polyethyleglycol (PEG)-enriched continuous phase, and the mixture was further sonicated. Using Nile red to label the oil droplets enabled the observation of their presence at the surface of Dex droplets (5 µm), allowing for stabilizing them, preventing coalescence of the W/W emulsion, and mimicking W/O/W double emulsions. The addition of sulfate derivative of Dextran (DexSulf) allowed for stable droplets of a slightly larger diameter. By contrast, the addition of carboxymethyl Dextran (CMDex) destabilized the initial aqueous double-like emulsion, yielding sequestration of the oil droplets within the Dex-rich phase. Interestingly, addition of DexSulf to that unstable emulsion re-yielded stable droplets. Similar findings (destabilization) were obtained when adding sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to the initial double-like emulsion, which reformed stable droplets when adding positively charged Dextran (DEAEDex) derivatives. The use of fluorescently (FITC) labeled derivatives of Dextran (Dex, CMDex, DEAEDex, and DexSulf) allowed us to follow their position within, out of, or at the interface of droplets in the above-mentioned mixtures. These findings are expected to be of interest in the field of materials chemistry. Full article

Background: Olive pomace, a byproduct of olive oil production, represents approximately 85% of the processed material and poses environmental risks when improperly discarded. Its composition is rich in polyphenols with potential for cosmetic use, especially in skin barrier care. Objective: To develop a natural extract rich in antioxidants from olive pomace using sustainable solvents (water and 1,3-propanediol) for skin barrier support. Methods: The phenolic composition and in vitro biological activities of the extracts were analyzed. Results: The extracts demonstrated a reducing capacity (15 to 33 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid content (4 to 5 mg QE/g). In addition, their antioxidant capacity was proven through the inhibition of the DPPH radical (7% to 91%) and ABTS (7% to 95%) and the reduction in oxidation in the beta-carotene/linoleic acid system (6% to 35%), presenting results superior to those of tocopherol acetate. The hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein compounds, ranging from 28 to 54 and 51 to 85 µg/mL, respectively, were quantified via HPLC. The extract with the highest levels of hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein was analyzed via UHPLC-QqTOF-MS, and 33 compounds were identified. This extract showed antiglycation activity (24% to 40%). The incorporation of this extract into a cosmetic emulsion resulted in sufficient antioxidant capacity to replace tocopherol acetate. Conclusions: The use of effective extraction techniques and nontoxic solvents ensures the sustainability and safety of the extract for application as a natural cosmetic ingredient, aiming to promote the health and integrity of the skin barrier. Full article

Background/Objectives: Trimethoprim (TMP), a sulfonamide antibacterial synergist, is widely used in antimicrobial therapy owing to its broad-spectrum activity and clinical efficacy in treating respiratory, urinary tract, and gastrointestinal infections. However, its application is limited due to poor aqueous solubility, a short elimination half-life (t_1/2), and low bioavailability. In this study, we proposed TMP loaded by PEG-PLGA polymer nanoparticles (NPs) to increase its efficacy. Methods: We synthesized and thoroughly characterized PEG-PLGA NPs loaded with TMP using an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion solvent evaporation method, denoted as PEG-PLGA/TMP NPs. Drug loading capacity (LC) and encapsulation efficiency (EE) were quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Comprehensive investigations were conducted on the stability of PEG-PLGA/TMP NPs, in vitro drug release profiles, and in vivo pharmacokinetics. Results: The optimized PEG-PLGA/TMP NPs displayed a high LC of 34.0 ± 1.6%, a particle size of 245 ± 40 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.103 ± 0.019, a zeta potential of −23.8 ± 1.2 mV, and an EE of 88.2 ± 4.3%. The NPs remained stable at 4 °C for 30 days and under acidic conditions. In vitro release showed sustained biphasic kinetics and enhanced cumulative release, 86% at pH 6.8, aligning with first-order models. Pharmacokinetics in rats revealed a 2.82-fold bioavailability increase, prolonged half-life 2.47 ± 0.19 h versus 0.72 ± 0.08 h for free TMP, and extended MRT 3.10 ± 0.11 h versus 1.27 ± 0.11 h. Conclusions: PEG-PLGA NPs enhanced the solubility and oral bioavailability of TMP via high drug loading, stability, and sustained-release kinetics, validated by robust in vitro-in vivo correlation, offering a promising alternative for clinical antimicrobial therapy. Full article

This study explored the potential of chitosan (CH)/bacterial cellulose (BC) complexes (0.5% w/v) as novel emulsifiers to stabilize oil-in-water (o/w) Pickering emulsions (20% v/v sunflower oil), with a focus on their gel-like behavior. Emulsions were prepared using CH combined with BNC derived via H₂SO₄ (BNC1) or H₂SO₄-HCl (BNC2) hydrolysis. Increasing BNC content improved stability by reducing phase separation and enhancing viscosity, while CH contributed interfacial activity and electrostatic stabilization. CH/BNC1_25:75 emulsions showed the highest stability, maintaining an emulsion stability index (ESI) of up to 100% after 3 days, with minimal change in droplet size (R_h ~8.5–8.8 μm) and a positive ζ-potential (15.1–29.8 mV), as confirmed by dynamic/electrophoretic light scattering. pH adjustment to 4 and 10 had little effect on their ESI, while ionic strength studies showed that 0.1 M NaCl caused only a slight increase in droplet size combined with the highest ζ-potential (−35.2 mV). Higher salt concentrations led to coalescence and disruption of their gel-like structure. Rheological analysis of CH/BNC1_25:75 emulsions revealed shear-thinning behavior and dominant elastic properties (G′ > G″), indicating a soft gel network. Incorporating sunflower-seed protein isolates into CH/BNC1 (25:75) emulsions led to coacervate formation (three-layer system), characterized by a decrease in droplet size and an increase in ζ-potential (up to 32.8 mV) over 7 days. These findings highlight CH/BNC complexes as sustainable stabilizers for food-grade Pickering emulsions, supporting the development of biopolymer-based emulsifiers aligned with bioeconomy principles. Full article

A high intake of saturated fats and cholesterol from processed meats is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. This study aimed to develop a nutritionally enhanced Bologna-type sausage by partially replacing the beef content with a structured emulsion gel (EG) formulated from pine nut oil, inulin, carrageenan, and whey protein concentrate. The objective was to improve its lipid quality and functional performance while maintaining product integrity and consumer acceptability. Three sausage formulations were prepared: a control and two variants with 7% and 10% EG, which substituted for the beef content. The emulsion gel was characterized regarding its physical and thermal stability. Sausages were evaluated for their proximate composition, fatty acid profile, cholesterol content, pH, cooking yield, water-holding capacity, emulsion stability, instrumental texture, microstructure (via SEM), oxidative stability (TBARSs), and sensory attributes. Data were analyzed using a one-way and two-way ANOVA with Duncan’s test (p < 0.05). The EG’s inclusion significantly reduced the total and saturated fat and cholesterol, while increasing protein and unsaturated fatty acids. The 10% EG sample achieved a PUFA/SFA ratio of 1.00 and an over 80% reduction in atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Functional improvements were observed in emulsion stability, cooking yield, and water retention. Textural and visual characteristics remained within acceptable sensory thresholds. SEM images showed more homogenous matrix structures in the EG samples. TBARS values increased slightly over 18 days of refrigeration but remained below rancidity thresholds. This period was considered a pilot-scale evaluation of oxidative trends. Sensory testing confirmed that product acceptability was not negatively affected. The partial substitution of beef content with pine nut oil-based emulsion gel offers a clean-label strategy to enhance the nutritional quality of Bologna-type sausages while preserving functional and sensory performance. This approach may support the development of health-conscious processed meat products aligned with consumer and regulatory demands. Full article