L-Glutamato: un aminoácido clave para las funciones sensoriales y metabólicas / L-glutamate: a key amino acid for sensory and metabolic functions

El ácido glutámico como tal o en su forma ionizada L-glutamato (GLU) es uno de los aminoácidos más abundantes en la naturaleza debido a que cumple funciones importantes a nivel celular y sistémico. En el intestino y el hígado, por ejemplo, el GLU constituye fuente de energía y es precursor de moléculas de relevancia biológica. Mientras que en el sistema nervioso central de los mamíferos actúa como neurotransmisor excitatorio, debido a la interacción con receptores específicos distribuidos en el cerebro. Además al GLU se le ha relacionado con la potenciación a corto y largo plazo de la memoria y el aprendizaje. Por otro lado, el consumo de GLU o de su sal monosódica (GMS) como aditivo alimentario genera el gusto umami, palabra japonesa que significa sabroso. El consumo de GMS ha sido considerado seguro por diferentes organizaciones que evalúan la inocuidad de uso de los aditivos alimentarios, razón por la cual han establecido una ingesta diaria admisible (IDA) "no especificada" y lo clasifican como un ingrediente reconocido como seguro o sustancia GRAS (por sus siglas en inglés, Generally Recognized Safe Substance). En esta revisión se presentan los aspectos del metabolismo del GLU, su papel en la degustación de los alimentos y la inocuidad del uso del GMS(AU)

Glutamic acid or its ionic form L-glutamate (GLU) is one of the most abundant amino acids in nature and it plays important functions at the cellular and systemic levels. For instance, in the intestine and liver, GLU is a source of energy and is the precursor of key biological molecules. At the central nervous system of mammals, GLU acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter due to the interaction with specific receptors. In addition, GLU has been related with short- and long-term potentiation, memory and the learning. Furthermore, consumption of GLU or its monosodium salt (monosodium glutamate, MSG) as a food additive is responsible for the umami taste. The consumption of MSG has been considered safe for different agencies responsible for the evaluation of the safe use of food additives, which have establish an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) “not specified”, or classified as Generally Recognized Safe Substance (GRAS). This review focuses on important metabolic aspects of GLU and its role in food tasting and MSG safety(AU)

L-glutamate: a key amino acid for senory and metabolic functions.

Glutamic acid or its ionic form L-glutamate (GLU) is one of the most abundant amino acids in nature and it plays important functions at the cellular and systemic levels. For instance, in the intestine and liver, GLU is a source of energy and is the precursor of key biological molecules. At the central nervous system of mammals, GLU acts as an excitatory neurotrausmitter due to the interaction with specific receptors. In addition, GLU has been related with short- and long-term potentiation, memory and the learning. Furthermore, consumption of GLU or its monosodium salt (monosodium glutamate, MSG) as a food additive is responsible for the umami taste. The consumption of MSG has been considered safe for different agencies responsible for the evaluation of the safe use of food additives, which have establish an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) "not specified", or classified as Generally Recognized Safe Substance (GRAS). This review focuses on important metabolic aspects of GLU and its role in food tasting and MSG safety.

Laminados de guayaba (Psidium guajava L) enriquecidos con inulina y calcio / Guava (Psidium guajava L.) laminates enriched with inulin and calcium

La guayaba (Psidium guajava L.) es una fruta de gran aceptación que puede ser utilizada como vehículo de nutrientes y componentes bioactivos, cualidades atractivas para elaborar alimentos con beneficios a la salud. Por tal motivo, se desarrollaron laminados de guayaba enriquecidos con inulina y calcio. Para elaborar los laminados se preparó un puré con pulpa de guayaba, sacarosa y fructosa en proporción 85:10:5, se adicionó inulina, lactato de calcio, solución de ácido cítrico (30%) y se deshidrató en un secador de bandejas a 60 ºC. Se desarrollaron cuatro formulaciones variando las proporciones de inulina y lactato de calcio. Se evaluó la aceptabilidad global de los laminados con una escala hedónica no estructurada de 10 cm (cero representó “me disgusta mucho”, cinco “indiferente” y diez “me gusta mucho”) y la aceptabilidad de los atributos sensoriales dulzor, acidez, color y dureza al morder con una escala JAR (just-about-right) de 3 puntos. Se evaluaron las características físicas, químicas y nutricionales de los laminados elaborados bajo la formulación seleccionada sensorialmente. La aceptabilidad varió entre 6,6 y 7,2, donde los laminados elaborados con 1,0 g de inulina y 1,0 g de lactato de calcio/100g de pulpa representaron la mejor opción. El producto presentó bajo dulzor, alta acidez y alta dureza al morder, sin embargo, ninguno de los atributos causó desagrado. Los laminados de guayaba aportan calcio y fibra dietaria a la ingesta diaria y representan una opción innovadora con potencial de alimento funcional, útil para diversificar y motivar el consumo de frutas y derivados(AU)

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) laminates enriched with inulin and calcium. Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a fruit of great acceptance that can be used as vehicle of nutrients and bioactive components, attractive qualities for making products with health benefits. Therefore, guava laminates enriched with inulin and calcium were developed. To elaborate the laminates a puree was prepared with guava pulp, sucrose and fructose in proportion 85:10:5, inulin, calcium lactate and citric acid solution (30%) was added and it was subjected to drying in a tray dehydrator at 60 °C. Four formulations were developed varying the proportions of inulin and calcium lactate. The overall acceptability of laminates was evaluated wih a 10-cm unstructured hedonic scale (zero represented "I dislike much" five "indifferent" and ten "I like") and the acceptability of the sensory attributes sweetness, acidity, color and hardness to bite with a 3-point JAR (just-about-right) scale. Physical, chemical and nutritional characteristics of the laminates produced under the selected treatment were evaluated. Acceptability varied between 6.6 and 7.2, where laminates made with 1.0 g inulin and 1.0 g calcium lactate/ 100g pulp represented the best choice. The product presented low sweetness, high acidity and high hardness to bite, however, none of the attributes caused displeasure. Guava laminates provide calcium and dietary fiber daily intake and represent an innovative option with potential functional food, useful to diversify and encourage consumption of fruits and derivatives(AU)

Desarrollo y evaluación de la bebida instantánea lactovisoy / Development and evaluation of the lactovisoy instant drink

La escasez de leche en Venezuela requiere la búsqueda de nuevas fórmulas que puedan sustituir en parte su deficiencia. Debido a esto se elaboró una bebida de valor nutritivo similar al de la leche pero de menor costo. En este trabajo se presenta su desarrollo; para ello se estudiaron 10 fórmulas a base de leche descremada y completa, harina de arroz y soya. Otros ingredientes fueron azúcar, grasa vegetal, vitaminas, minerales y saborizantes. Se seleccionaron 4 fórmulas y se les sometió a un análisis proximal, evaluación sensorial y nutricional. Se probaron varios procesos de extrusión, doble tambor y mezcla en seco. Se le determinó la Relación de Eficiencia Protéica (PER) y la Digestibilidad Aparente (DA), presentando valores de 2,3 a 3,1 y 85 - 94% respectivamente. La aceptabilidad del producto se probó con 5.000 niños entre los 7 y 14 años, y resultó de un 95% de aceptación. La factibilidad económica demostró que se podía fabricar a un precio inferior al de la leche dependiendo del proceso y envase. Un vaso de 200 ml del producto reconstituido al 25% con un aporte de 8 g de proteína y 195 calorías, representa una alternativa para el programa del vaso de leche escolar y para otros programas institucionales(AU)

There is a need to develop new milk substitutes in Venezuela; thus, a cheaper beverage of similar nutritive value as milk was developed. Ten different formulas, based on skimmed milk, rice and soya flour were studied; other ingredients used included sugar, vegetable oil, vitamins, minerals and flavoring. Four of these formulas were selected, chemically analyzed, and evaluated nutritionally and organoleptically. Various technological processes were applied: extrusion, drum drying, spray drying and dry mix method. Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER), and Apparent Digestibility (AD) value were 2,3 to 3,1 and 85 to 94% respectively. Product acceptability was tested on 5.000 children 7-14 years old; 95% acceptability ratio was observed. An economic feasibility study indicated a possibility of industrialization at a lower price than whole milk which varied depending on the process and the packing used. A 25% reconstituted product (200 mL) provides 8 g protein and 195 kcal, and represents a viable alternative for the "glass of milk" school program and for other institutional nutrition-intervention programs that the goverment could implement(AU)

Cascarilla de cacao venezolano como materia prima de infusiones / Husk of Venezuelan cocoa as raw material of infusions

En la industria del cacao se subutilizan materiales que pudieran ser ingredientes en la elaboración de productos novedosos, uno de ellos es la cascarilla de cacao. Estudios previos le atribuyen a dicho material una alta capacidad antioxidante, lo que sumado a su relativo bajo costo, lo hacen un atractivo ingrediente para la elaboración de infusiones, pero antes de promoverlo como tal, se necesita garantizar su calidad. En este estudio se evaluó la composición química, la calidad microbiológica de la cascarilla de cacao, así como también aquellos parámetros que determinan su uso como materia prima en la preparación de infusiones. Las semillas de cacao fueron cultivadas en dos estados en Venezuela. A la cascarilla de cacao se le determinó el contenido de humedad, proteínas, grasa, cenizas, carbohidratos, minerales, calidad microbiológica, ocratoxina A y las propiedades como antioxidante, contenido de materias extrañas, cenizas insolubles en HCL y extracto acuoso. Los métodos aplicados se basan en normas nacionales e internacionales. Se determinaron diferencias significativas entre las muestras mediante la aplicación de ANOVA. Un bajo contenido de humedad pero alto en cenizas, una calidad microbiológica ajustada a la norma y la ausencia de ocratoxina A se observaron en la totalidad de las muestras analizadas. El bajo contenido de materias extrañas y alto valor del extracto acuoso y alto contenido de polifenoles con actividad antioxidante permite recomendar la cascarilla del cacao como materia prima para preparar infusiones.

In the cocoa bean industry, some by-products go underutilized. Some of these components could provide other innovative products, and such is the case with the husk of the cocoa bean. Previous studies have attributed the husk with a high antioxidant capacity, which added to its relative low cost, makes it an attractive ingredient for the production of infusions. However, prior to promoting it as such, its quality needs to be guaranteed. This study evaluated the chemical composition of the husk of cocoa, its microbiologic quality and other parameters in order to be considered raw material in the preparation of infusions. The cocoa was cultivated in two different states in Venezuela. Moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, microbiologic quality and ochratoxin A as well antioxidant properties, content of foreign matter, insoluble ash in HCL and aqueous extract were evaluated in the husk of cocoa seeds. Applied methods were in compliance with national and international norms. Significant differences were determined between the samples through the ANOVA application. A low level in moisture content, but high in ash, along with a microbiologic quality that met the norm, and an absence of ochratoxin A were observed in the totality of the analyzed samples. Low levels of foreign matter, the high value of its aqueous extract and high phenolic compounds content with antioxidant activity allow for the recommendation of the husk of cocoa as raw material for the preparation of infusions.

[Husk of Venezuelan cocoa as raw material of infusions]. / Cascarilla de cacao venezolano como materia prima de infusions.

In the cocoa bean industry, some by-products go underutilized. Some of these components could provide other innovative products, and such is the case with the husk of the cocoa bean. Previous studies have attributed the husk with a high antioxidant capacity, which added to its relative low cost, makes it an attractive ingredient for the production of infusions. However, prior to promoting it as such, its quality needs to be guaranteed. This study evaluated the chemical composition of the husk of cocoa, its microbiologic quality and other parameters in order to be considered raw material in the preparation of infusions. The cocoa was cultivated in two different states in Venezuela. Moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, microbiologic quality and ochratoxin A as well antioxidant properties, content of foreign matter, insoluble ash in HCL and aqueous extract were evaluated in the husk of cocoa seeds. Applied methods were in compliance with national and international norms. Significant differences were determined between the samples through the ANOVA application. A low level in moisture content, but high in ash, along with a microbiologic quality that met the norm, and an absence of ochratoxin A were observed in the totality of the analyzed samples. Low levels of foreign matter, the high value of its aqueous extract and high phenolic compounds content with antioxidant activity allow for the recommendation of the husk of cocoa as raw material for the preparation of infusions.

Caracterización de semillas de linaza (Linum usitatissimum L.) cultivadas en Venezuela

En los últimos años se ha promovido el consumo de linaza (Linum usitatissimum L.) como alimento funcional por sus beneficios a la salud, atribuibles principalmente a su contenido de ácidos grasos omega-3, lignanos, y fibra dietaria. En este estudio se evaluó la calidad microbiológica, composición química y las propiedades antioxidantes de la semilla de linaza cultivada en Venezuela y se comparó con una variedad canadiense de amplia venta en el país. Se determinaron coliformes totales, mohos y levaduras, S. aureus, y esporulados de los géneros Bacillus (aerobios) y Clostridium (anaerobios), humedad, grasas, proteínas, fibra dietética total, soluble e insoluble, mucílago, minerales, perfil de ácidos grasos, contenido de HCN equivalente, aw, color, polifenoles y propiedades antioxidantes como Eficiencia Antirradical (EA), concentración de antioxidante necesario para disminuir la concentración inicial en 50 % (EC50) y el tiempo necesario para alcanzar la EC50 (TEC50). Se determinaron diferencias significativas en la composición de las semillas, resaltando su elevado contenido de grasa, proteínas, ácido alfa-linolénico y fibra dietaria. Se observaron diferencias en el contenido de mucílago, pero no en el de fibra soluble, insoluble y total. La concentración de HCN equivalente en ambas semillas es del orden de 40 mg/100 g, lo cual no representa riesgos a la salud, si se consideran sus formas de consumo. La linaza venezolana contiene mayor contenido de polifenoles que la canadiense, pero la capacidad antioxidante de esta última es mayor; ambas tienen una EA calificada como media (TEC50>30 min).

Characterization of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) grown in Venezuela. In recent years, the consumption of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) has been promoted as a functional food for its health benefits, mainly attributable to its content of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and dietary fiber. This study evaluated the microbiological quality, chemical composition and antioxidant properties of flaxseed grown in Venezuela and compared them to the values of a Canadian variety widely sold in the country. Total coliforms, molds and yeasts, S. aureus and sporulated of the genera Bacillus (aerobic) and Clostridium (anaerobic), moisture, fat, protein, total dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble, mucilage, minerals, fatty acid profile, equivalent HCN content, aw, color, polyphenols and antioxidant properties, like antiradical efficiency (AE), concentration of antioxidant needed to decrease the initial concentration by 50 % (EC50) and the time required to reach the EC50 (TEC50) were evaluated. Significant differences in seed composition were determined, where its high content of fat, protein, alfalinolenic acid and dietary fiber stand out. Differences were observed in the mucilage content, but not in soluble, insoluble and total fiber content. Equivalent HCN concentration in both seeds is in the order of 40 mg/100 g, which poses no health risks, considering their consumption patterns. Venezuelan flaxseed contains higher content of polyphenols than the Canadian does, but the antioxidant capacity of the latter is higher; both have an EA rated as average and a slow reaction time (TEC50> 30 min).

[Characterization of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) grown in Venezuela]. / Caracterización de semillas de linaza (Linum usitatissimum L.) cultivadas en Venezuela.

In recent years, the consumption of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) has been promoted as a functional food for its health benefits, mainly attributable to its content of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and dietary fiber. This study evaluated the microbiological quality, chemical composition and antioxidant properties of flaxseed grown in Venezuela and compared them to the values of a Canadian variety widely sold in the country. Total coliforms, molds and yeasts, S. aureus and sporulated of the genera Bacillus (aerobic) and Clostridium (anaerobic), moisture, fat, protein, total dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble, mucilage, minerals, fatty acid profile, equivalent HCN content, aw, color, polyphenols and antioxidant properties, like antiradical efficiency (AE), concentration of antioxidant needed to decrease the initial concentration by 50 %EC50) and the time required to reach the EC50 (TEC50) were evaluated. Significant differences in seed composition were determined, where its high content of fat, protein, alfa-linolenic acid and dietary fiber stand out. Differences were observed in the mucilage content, but not in soluble, insoluble and total fiber content. Equivalent HCN concentration in both seeds is in the order of 40 mg/100 g, which poses no health risks, considering their consumption patterns. Venezuelan flaxseed contains higher content of polyphenols than the Canadian does, but the antioxidant capacity of the latter is higher; both have an EA rated as average and a slow reaction time (TEC50 > 30 min).

Impact of solar dehydration on composition and antioxidant properties of acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.).

Commercial products derived from the acai fruit (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) are available in Brazil, but in Venezuela, it is only known by ethnic indigenous groups of the Amazon. In this study, acai flour was made by solar dehydration and the effect of processing on the composition, microbiological quality, and antioxidant properties of such flour were evaluated. The fruit was purchased in Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela, and a portion was manually pulped. Microbiological quality, proximal composition, minerals, polyphenols, tannins, anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated. The remaining portion of fruit was blanched in a solution of ascorbic acid and citric acid at 98 degrees C for 1 min in the same manner, manually pulped, dried by solar dehydration and the acai flour was also analysed. From the composition of the acai flour, its high content of fat (22.9%), protein (13.7%), dietary fibre (20.5%), total polyphenols (1.60 g/kg) and antioxidant capacity (79.97%) stood out. The blanching of the fruit and the solar dehydrating of the acai pulp did not modify the composition, but they improved its microbiological quality and reduced phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. The flour obtained is stable and innocuous and could be used to diversify the diet of the indigenous people of the Amazon region.

Impact of solar dehydration on composition and antioxidant properties of acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.)

Commercial products derived from the acai fruit (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) are available in Brazil, but in Venezuela, it is only known by ethnic indigenous groups of the Amazon. In this study, acai flour was made by solar dehydration and the effect of processing on the composition, microbiological quality, and antioxidant properties of such flour were evaluated. The fruit was purchased in Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela, and a portion was manually pulped. Microbiological quality, proximal composition, minerals, polyphenols, tannins, anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated. The remaining portion of fruit was blanched in a solution of ascorbic acid and citric acid at 98ºC for 1min in the same manner, manually pulped, dried by solar dehydration and the acai flour was also analysed. From the composition of the acai flour, its high content of fat (22.9%), protein (13.7%), dietary fibre (20.5%), total polyphenols (1.60 g/kg) and antioxidant capacity (79.97%) stood out. The blanching of the fruit and the solar dehydrating of the acai pulp did not modify the composition, but they improved its microbiological quality and reduced phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. The flour obtained is stable and innocuous and could be used to diversify the diet of the indigenous people of the Amazon region.

Los productos comerciales derivados del fruto del acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart) están disponibles en Brasil, no así en Venezuela donde sólo los grupos indígenas del Amazonas lo conocen y consumen. En este estudio se elaboró una harina de acai mediante deshidratación solar y se evaluó el efecto del procesamiento en la composición, calidad microbiológica y propiedades antioxidantes de dicha harina. Los frutos fueron adquiridos en Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela y una porción de ellos se despulpó manualmente y se le determinó calidad microbiológica, composición proximal, contenido de minerales, contenido de polifenoles, taninos, antocianinas y la capacidad antioxidante. La otra porción del fruto se escaldó en una solución de ácido ascórbico y ácido cítrico a 98ºC por 1min, se despulpó manualmente y se eliminó su humedad por deshidratación solar; a la harina de acai obtenida se le hicieron los mismos análisis que a la pulpa. De la composición del acai resaltó su alto contenido de grasa (22.9%), proteína (13.7%), fibra dietética (20.5%), polifenoles totales (1.60 g/kg-1) y su capacidad antioxidante (79.97%). El lavado y escaldado de los frutos y la posterior deshidratación solar de la pulpa del acai no modificó significativamente su composición, pero si mejoró la calidad microbiológica y redujo los compuestos fenólicos y la capacidad antioxidante. La harina obtenida es estable e inocua y se podría utilizar para diversificar la dieta de los indígenas de la región del Amazonas.

Calidad microbiológica de semillas germinadas de phaseolus vulgaris / MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF GERMINATED SEED OF Phaseolus vulgaris / QUALIDADE MICROBIOLÓGICA DE SEMENTES GERMINADAS DE Phaseolus vulgaris

Las semillas germinadas tienen un valor nutricional mejorado pero han sido involucradas en muchos brotes infecciosos ocasionados por productos alimenticios. En este estudio se realizó el recuento de bacterias aerobias, coliformes totales, Escherichia coli, levaduras y mohos en semillas sin germinar y germinadas de dos variedades de Phaseolus vulgaris. Adicionalmente se hizo la enumeración de Bacillus cereus en las semillas germinadas. También se investigó la presencia de Salmonella spp, Listeria monocytogenes y E. coli O157:H7. La población de aerobios mesófilos, coliformes totales, mohos y levaduras incrementó en las semillas germinadas con respecto a las semillas sin germinar en las dos variedades de P. vulgaris. No se detectó la presencia de Salmonella, L. monocytogenes o E. coli O157:H7 en las semillas de Phaseolus sin germinar ni en las germinadas. Se observaron altos recuentos de B. cereus, lo cual representa un riesgo a la salud de los consumidores.

Sprouts have an improved nutritional value but have been involved in many foodborne infectious outbreaks. Aerobic bacteria, coliforms, generic Escherichia coli, yeasts and moulds were counted in dry seeds and in sprouts of two varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris. Bacillus cereus was counted in sprouts. The presence of Salmonella spp, Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli O157:H7 was investigated. Populations of aerobic mesophiles, coliforms, moulds and yeasts increased in the sprouts with respect to the dry seeds in the two varieties of P. vulgaris. The presence of Salmonella, L. monocytogenes or E. coli O157:H7 was not detected in the dry beans nor in sprouts. However, high counts of B. cereus were obtained, which represents a health risk.

As sementes germinadas têm um valor nutricional melhorado mastem sido envolvidas em muitos surtos infecciosos ocasionados por productos alimentícios. Neste estudo se realizou a contagem de bactérias aeróbias, coliformes totais, Escherichia coli, leveduras e mofos em sementes sem germinar e germinadas de duas variedades de Phaseolus vulgaris. Adicionalmente foi realizada a enumeração de Bacillus cereus nas sementes germinadas. Também foi investigada a presença de Salmonella spp, Listeria monocytogenes e E. coli O157:H7. A população de aeróbios mesófilos, coliformes totais, mofos e leveduras incrementou nas sementes germinadas em relação às sementes sem germinar nas duas variedades de P. vulgaris. Não foi detectada a presença de Salmonella, L. monocytogenes o E. coli O157:H7 nas sementes de Phaseolus sem germinar nem nas germinadas. Observaram-se altas recontagens de B. cereus, o qual representa um risco à saúde dos consumidores.

[Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) hulls: a posible commercial source of pectins]. / La cáscara de cacao (Theobroma cacao L.): una posible fuente comercial de pectinas.

Commercial exploitation of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) generates a volume of hulls that could be used in the production of pectins on an industrial scale. Therefore, pectins from cocoa hulls were extracted at different pH and temperature conditions, and their main chemical characteristics were evaluated. EDTA at 0.5% was used for the extraction at pHs 3, 4 and 5 and temperatures of 60, 75 and 90 degrees C, under a 3 2 factorial design. The response variables were yield, content of anhydrous galacturonic acid (AGA), content of metoxil, degree of esterification and equivalent weight of the pectins extracted. The strength of the pectic gel was determined with a TA-XT2 texturometer. Strawberry jam was made with the pectin extracted, and its acceptability was determined using a 7-point hedonic scale. The results obtained were as follows: an extraction yield from 2.64 to 4.69 g/100 g; an AGA content between 49.8 and 64.06 g/100 g; a content of metoxil between 4.72 and 7.18 g/100 g; a degree of esterification between 37.94 and 52.20%; an equivalent weight from 385.47 to 464.61 g/equivalent of H+, and a degree of gelation between 28.64 and 806.03 g force. The pectin extracted at pH 4 and 90 degrees C showed a gelation power of 422.16 g force, purity 62.26 g/100 g of AGA, and a yield of extraction of 3.89 g/100 g and allowed to prepare ajam with an average level of liking of "like moderately". Pectins from cocoa hulls show potential application in the food industry, but it is necessary to optimize the extraction parameters to increase its yield.

La cáscara de cacao (Theobroma cacao L. ): una posible fuente comercial de pectinas / Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L. ) hulls: a posible commercial source of pectins

La explotación comercial del cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) genera un volumen de cáscaras que pudiera utilizarse para la producción de pectinas a nivel industrial. Por tal razón, se extrajeron de la cáscara de cacao a diferentes condiciones de pH y temperatura y se evaluaron sus principales características químicas. Para la extracción se usó EDTA al 0.5 por ciento a pHs 3, 4 y 5 y temperaturas de 60, 75 y 90°C, bajo diseño factorial 3

La inulina y derivados como ingredientes claves en alimentos funcionales / Inulin and derivates as key ingredients in functional foods

La inulina es un carbohidrato no digerible que está presente en muchos vegetales, frutas y cereales. En la actualidad, a nivel industrial se extrae de la raíz de la achicoria (Cichorium intybus) y se utiliza ampliamente como ingrediente en alimentos funcionales. La inulina y sus derivados (oligofructosa, fructooligosacáridos) son generalmente llamados fructanos, que están constituidos básicamente por cadenas lineales de fructosa. En esta revisión se presenta una descripción de la inulina y sus compuestos derivados más comunes, su estructura química, fuentes de obtención, características físicas y químicas, funcionalidad tecnológica, producción industrial, método analítico de determinación, sus beneficios a la salud como prebiótico, aporte de fibra dietética, bajo valor calórico, hipoglicemiante, mejorador de la biodisponibilidad de calcio y magnesio. Se presentan evidencias promisorias de su actuación en la regulación de parámetros inmune y protección contra desórdenes intestinales. En una amplia variedad de productos alimenticios se usa la inulina y sus derivados como: espesante, emulsificante, gelificante, sustituto de azúcares y de grasas, humectante, depresor del punto de congelación. También se emplean en la industria química-farmacéutica y de procesamiento como excipiente, aditivo, agente tecnológico o coadyudante; en la industria de la alimentación animal, y se está considerando su uso como constituyente de los empaques por su carácter de material bioactivo. Se ha propuesto catalogar a los fructanos como "fibra funcional", en base a una nueva clasificación de la fibra dietética que considera el efecto fisiológico en el individuo. A través de esta revisión se evidenció el vaso alcance de estos compuestos en la industria alimentaria y las razones por las que resultan ser ingredientes claves en el pujante mercado de los alimentos funcionales.

[Inulin and derivates as key ingredients in functional foods]. / La inulina y derivados como ingredientes claves en alimentos funcionales.

Inulin is a non-digestible carbohydrate that is contained in many vegetables, fruits and cereals. It is industrially produced from the chicory's root (Cichorium intybus) and it is widely used as ingredient in functional foods. Inulin and its derivate compounds (oligofructose, fructooligosaccharides) are usually called fructans, as they are basically based on linear fructose chains. This review presents a description of inulin and its most common derivate compounds: chemical structure, natural sources, physic-chemical properties, technological functionality, industrial manufacturing, analytical method for determination and health benefits: prebiotic, dietary fiber, low caloric value, hypoglycemic action, enhancement of calcium and magnesium bioavailability. Potential benefits: lipid parameters regulation, reduction of colon cancer risk and others, improvement of immune response, intestinal disorders protection. From technological point of view, these compounds exhibit a variety of properties: thickener, emulsifier, gel forming, sugar and fat substitute, humectant, freezing point depression. Inulin and derivates are been used in pharmaceutical, chemical and processing industry as technological additives and excipients. They are also been used for animal feeding. They are been considered as "bioactive" compounds to be proposed as future packaging material. Fructans are proposed to be classified as "functional fiber", according to recent concepts based on physiological effects on individuals. This review of inulin and its derivates was useful to show the broad boundaries of these compounds in the food industry and why they may be considered as key ingredients in the expanding functional food market.

Efecto de la adición de nisina en los parámetros físicos, químicos y sensoriales del queso telita / Effect of the addition of nisin on the physical, chemical and sensory parameters of telita cheese

El uso de la nisina, una bacteriocina natural, es una alternativa para disminuir los riesgos de la elaboración de queso con leche cruda, aumentarle la vida útil del producto y en consecuencia mejorar su comercialización. En este estudio se evaluó el efecto de dos concentraciones de nisina (10 y 16,7 mg/kg queso), en las características físicas, químicas y en la calidad sensorial del queso "telita" elaborado con 3 partidas de leche fresca de diferente procedencia. El queso "telita" sin la adición de nisina se usó como control. Se prepararon 3 lotes de quesos. A la leche cruda se le determinó densidad, pH, acidez, proteínas, grasa, cenizas, fósforo y calcio. Se le determinó humedad, proteínas, grasas, aw, pH y calidad sensorial a 24h de elaborados los quesos. Se observaron variaciones significativas en la composición de las tres partidas de leche utilizadas. La composición promedio de los quesos analizados fue: humedad 64 por ciento, proteínas 16 por ciento, grasas 17 por ciento, aw 0,98 y pH 5,7. La calidad sensorial del queso con nisina no varió significativamente con respecto al queso control. Los resultados indican que la adición de nisina en las concentraciones ensayadas no afectó la composición química y la calidad sensorial del queso telita.

Efecto sinergistico y cuantificación de los 5-ribonucleótidos en una sopa de pollo / Synergistic effect and quantification of 5´-ribonucleótidos in the chicken soup

La normativa nacional e internacional permite adicionar a las mezclas deshidratadas para caldos y sopas resaltadores del sabor tales como glutamato monosódico (GMS) y los ácidos inosínico y guanílico o sus sales fosfatadas (IMF y GMF, respectivamente), solos o combinados para lograr un efecto sinergístico. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron: 1) determinar mediante un panel sensorial, el efecto sinergístico en el sabor de una sopa de pollo deshidratada cuando se usa mezcla de resaltadores y 2) cuantificar los 5-ribonucleótidos en dicha matriz. La intensidad del sabor a pollo se determinó empleando un panel de 6 personas previamente entrenadas. Los 5-ribonucleótidos se cuantificaron empleando HPLC. Los resultados con el panel entrenado comprobaron que la combinación utilizada de GMS, IMF y GMF potencia significativamente (p<0,05) el sabor de la sopa de pollo deshidratada. El análisis químico de los 5´-ribonucleótidos reflejó un porcentaje de recuperación de 93,6 por ciento para GMF y 90,5 por ciento para IMF

[Manaca, sweet potato and yam: possible substitutes of wheat in foods for two ethnic population in Venezuelan Amazon]. / Manaca, batata y ñame: posibles sustitutos del trigo en alimentos para dos etnias del Amazonas venezolano.

In this study, flours from manaca or acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart), sweet potato (Ipomea batatas), and yam (Dioscorea spp.), species grown in the Venezuelan Amazon, were obtained. The proximal composition, water activity (a(w)), Fe, Ca, Zn, Mg, Cu, Na and K content were determined for the flours of manaca, sweet potato and yam. These flours were used as ingredients of products for the inhabitants of the indigenous populations of the Venezuelan Amazon (Piaroa and Hiwi). Two types of products that traditionally contain wheat flour in their formulation (ingredient they know by transculturation) were formulated; an attempt to substitute it totally or partially by the manaca, sweet potato and/or yam flours was made. For the selection of the products to be formulated, the preferences and eating habits of the indigenous communities and ease and simplicity of the preparations to be developed, were considered. The two products formulated were cookies and "small cakes". To decide on the formulation(s) of the final product(s), sensorial evaluations were made in the laboratory and in the indigenous communities Piaroa and Hiwi. High fat content (16%), dietetic fiber (59.7%) and iron (25 mg / 100 g) in manaca or acai flour were remarkable. Two types of cookies and two of "small cakes" were equally accepted by the indigenous communities. Cookies supply a high iron amount (about 24%). The feasibility of substituting the wheat flour by manaca, sweet potato and yam flour in products accepted by two ethnic populations of the Venezuelan Amazon was demonstrated.

Comparison of methods for recovering Vibrio cholerae O1 from ice.

Alkaline peptone water (1% peptone, 1% NaCl, pH 8.5) and Trypticase soy yeast extract broth (TSYB) supplemented with 2.5% NaCl (pH 8.5) or 1% NaCl (pH 7.5) were evaluated as enrichment broths for the isolation of Vibrio cholerae O1 from ice. Thirty samples of sterile and nonsterile mineral water were inoculated with cell suspensions of this bacterium, quickly frozen, and stored for 3 days at--18 degrees C. After thawing, samples were analyzed by a three-tube most-probable-number technique. Incubation in TSYB with 2.5% NaCl (pH 8.5) for 18 h at 37 degrees C yielded the highest recovery of V. cholerae O1 cells (P < 0.05), a result that might be attributable to the nutrients and to the NaCl concentration of the TSYB, both of which would promote V. cholerae O1 growth and prevent the growth of competitive microbiota.

[Synergistic effect and quantification of 5'-ribonucleotides in a chicken soup]. / Efecto sinergistico y cuantificación de los 5'-ribonucleótidos en una sopa de polio.

The international and national regulation permits the addition of flavour enhancers such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) and inosinic and guanilic acids and their fosfated salts (IMP or GMP, respectively) alone or combined to dehydrated mixtures of broths and soups in order to obtain a synergistic. The objectives of this study were: (1) to determine, through a sensorial panel, the synergistic effect on the flavour of a dehydrated chicken soup to which flavour enhancers were added and (2) quantify the 5'-ribonucleotides in such matrix. The intensity of the chicken flavour was determined using a previously trained 6-member panel. The 5'-ribonucleotidos were determined using the HPLC technique. The results using the panel demonstrated that the combination of GMS, IMF and GMF used potentiates significantly (p < 0.05) the flavour of the dehydrated chicken soup, which allows the use of less quantity of them to obtain the same effect on the flavour. The chemical analysis of the 5'-ribonucleotidos in the dehydrated chicken soup reflected a percentage of recovery of 93.6% for MSG and 90.5% for IMF.