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Review
. 2024 Jul;61(7):1215-1237.
doi: 10.1007/s13197-023-05817-w. Epub 2023 Aug 23.

Extraction and improvement of protein functionality using steam explosion pretreatment: advances, challenges, and perspectives

Cesar Vinicius Toniciolli Rigueto  1 , Marieli Rosseto  1 , Ingridy Alessandretti  2 , Daniela Dal Castel Krein  2 , Cassandro Davi Emer  2 , Raquel Aparecida Loss  3 , Aline Dettmer  2 , Ionara Regina Pizzutti  1
Affiliations
Review

Extraction and improvement of protein functionality using steam explosion pretreatment: advances, challenges, and perspectives

Cesar Vinicius Toniciolli Rigueto et al. J Food Sci Technol. 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Protein has become an increasingly valuable food component with high global demand. Consequently, unconventional sources, such as industrial and agroindustrial wastes and by-products, emerge as interesting alternatives to meet this demand, considering the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the transition to a circular economy. In this context, this work presents a review of the use of Steam Explosion (SE), a green technique that can be employed as a pretreatment for various waste materials, including bones, hide/leather, feathers, and wool, aimming the extraction of protein compounds, such as low molecular weight biopeptides, gelatin, and keratin, as well as to enhance the protein functionality of grains and meals. The SE technique and the main factors affecting the process's efficiency were detailed. Promising experimental studies are discussed, along with the mechanisms responsible for protein extraction and functionality improvement, as well as the main reported and suggested applications. In general, steam explosion favored yields in subsequent extraction processes, ranging from 27 to 95%, in addition to enhancing solubility and functional protein properties. Nonetheless, it is crucial to maintain the continuity of research on this topic to drive advancements in ensuring the safety of the extracted compounds for use in consumable products and oral ingestion.

Keywords: Functionality; Pretreatment; Protein; Steam explosion; Yield.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Steam explosion system
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Main raw materials a and products of interest b reported in studies using steam explosion over time (1990 to 2022)
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
The main temperature ranges in the steam explosion, according to raw material a and products of interest b
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Suggested or performed applications for protein compounds obtained from steam explosion pretreatment
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Economic, environmental, and social aspects positively impacted by the steam explosion as a pretreatment technique for protein extraction/modification
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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