Effects of Extraction Conditions on the Functional Properties of Bambara Bean Protein Concentrates

Abstract

Abstract Functional properties of Bambara bean protein concentrates (BPCs), as a function of extraction pH and NaCl concentration, were investigated. The results showed that protein content of the concentrates ranged between 69.27% and 74.40%. The addition of NaCl during protein extraction favourably affected water solubility index particularly at pH 10–11. Moreover, the maximum water absorption capacity (4.28 g/g) and oil-holding capacity (OHC) (2.50 g/g) were recorded at extraction pH 11 and in the absence of NaCl. It was also noticed that protein extraction at pH 8–10 was not recommended for applications where high OHC is required. BPCs presenting high emulsifying activity were prepared at NaCl concentration of 0.5 M and pH 7, and at pH 11 without NaCl. Finally, foaming ability (FA) increased with NaCl concentration, and the maximum FA was recorded at pH 7 (114%).