Evaluation and optimization of the production process of carrot juice concentrate to obtain a product with a higher content of beta-carotene
Abstract: Carrot juice concentrate (CJC) produced from fresh carrots is used in various applications in the beverage industry. Its quality is mainly defined by the carotenoid concentration which in turn strongly depends on the quality of the raw material and the processing technique. Manufacturers are constantly searching for new ways to produce a high-colour CJC. Thermal, enzymatic and mechanical treatments are suitable to improve the release of intercellular, hydrophobic carotenoids into the juice phase by inducing cell wall degradation and cell rupture. However, the complex relations between carotenoid yield, juice yield and Brix as well as the cost-benefit-ratio of such treatments are mostly not considered. The aim of the project is to evaluate and optimize the production process of CJC. Comparison of enzymatic and mechanical treatments of carrot pomace in terms of their capability to increase the carotenoid yield, while simultaneously providing a high concentration factor for colour from juice to concentrate, was the main focus of the experiments. The trials were performed on pilot-plant scale, analyses included juice yield, Brix and carotenoid concentration. Both treatments increased the carotenoid content in the juice, but to different extents. If not only the absolute colour concentration, but also simultaneous changes of Brix values are considered, the mechanical treatment is the more efficient tool for increased colour extraction. Inclusion of processing costs allows to determine the cost-benefit-ratio of the discussed treatments and claims mechanical treatment to be of higher interest from an industrial perspective. The project enables companies to re-define their approach with regards to processing techniques for production of high-colour CJC. Recommendations of enzymatic maceration can be rejected, instead focus is shifted towards cell disintegration by mechanical means.
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