Flaxseed Gum Extraction, and Preparation and Characterization of Flaxseed Gum–Soybean Protein Isolate Conjugates
摘要
Flaxseed meal, a by-product of flaxseed oil processing, is rich in flaxseed gum (FSG) but often wasted due to low-value use. This study aimed for its high-value transformation via process optimization. First, the ultrasonic-assisted extraction of FSG was optimized. Single-factor and Box-Behnken response-surface methods determined the optimal extraction: liquid-to-solid ratio 50 mL/g, pH 6, ultrasonic power 249 W, time 42 min, with a 27.12% extraction rate. It was innovatively proposed and verified that acidic conditions favor the Maillard reaction of FSG and soybean protein isolate (SPI). Single-factor and response-surface optimization set the optimal modification at pH 4.8, 84 °C, 104 min, preparing FSG-SPI conjugates with a 61.74% grafting degree. Structural analysis confirmed covalent binding, and SEM showed a dense flake-like structure. Functional analysis indicated improved properties compared to FSG (P < 0.05). This study offers a high-value utilization strategy for flaxseed meal and reveals the advantages of acidic Maillard modification, laying a foundation for new food ingredients.