Whey protein aerated gels as a new product obtained using ambient temperature magnesium and iron(II) induced gelation

The objective of the research was to obtain aerated gels by magnesium and iron(II) ion induced gelation of preheated whey protein isolate dispersions. Preliminary research allowed finding conditions of the pH, protein, and ion concentrations to produce aerated gels capable of holding air bubbles. A novel method applying gelation and aeration process simultaneously was used. Aeration using a laboratory mixer at 2000 r.p.m. produced stronger aerated gels than using a homogenizer at 8000 r.p.m. The gelation process was monitored using an ultrasound viscometer and a constant increase of dynamic viscosity was noted. A different aerated gel microstructure was observed for magnesium and iron(II) induced gels, which probably resulted in differences in the texture and viscosity, as well. The aeration process decreased hardness. In some cases texture parameters correlated with the viscosity measured using an ultrasound viscometer. Aerated whey protein gels could be applied as matrices for food applications or to controlled release of active ingredients

Evaluation of spent mushroom substrate, mineral NPK fertilization and manure fertilization on chamomile (Chamomilla recutita L. Rausch) yield and raw material quality

The aim of this experiment was to determine the effect of spent mushroom substrate (SMS), manure and mineral fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on chamomile (Chamomilla recutita L. Rausch) yield and raw material quality. Unfertilized chamomile plots were the control treatment. This study hypothesized that due to its high content of organic matter and macro- and micronutrients, SMS could be an alternative and innovative method of fertilization of this herbal plant. Given that the possibility of using organic fertilization is very limited, we should seek new methods to increase the organic matter content in cultivated soils. A three-year field experiment with a split-block design was conducted on podzolic soil under the climatic conditions of the central Lublin region (Poland). SMS used in this experiment was richer in dry matter and total nitrogen, but less rich in total organic carbon, phosphorus and potassium than farmyard manure. In each year of the study, the highest total yield of chamomile raw material was recorded in the treatment with SMS supplemented with mineral NPK fertilization in spring. The above-mentioned treatment also proved to be most beneficial for the majority of the analyzed quality parameters of the chamomile raw material. It was proved that due to fertilization of a chamomile plantation with SMS, herbal raw material characterized by the best health-promoting parameters (a high content of natural antioxidants) can be obtained

Development and physicochemical properties of reformulated, high-protein, untempered sugar-free dark chocolates with addition of whey protein isolate and erythritol

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of whey protein isolate (WPI) and erythritol on physicochemical properties of untempered high-protein (16%, 20% and 24% of protein), sugar-free dark chocolates intended for athletes and diabetics. Surface properties were determined from contact angles, roughness and colour analysis. Melting characteristics were evaluated by Turbiscan. Water activity and viscosity were also tested. Higher WPI concentrations produced more hydrophobic surfaces of the samples and slightly increased their surface roughness. Increased whey protein addition improved shelf life, mechanical properties of chocolates and their resistance to melting; however, it had a minor effect on colour coordinates. Confocal microscopy proved the differences in the microstructure, samples with the highest WPI addition demonstrated more packed and denser structure. Application of WPI and erythritol induced an anti-blooming effect, which enabled skipping of tempering operation, and thus contributing to lower chocolate production costs and their improved nutritional profile