Preparation of sustainable betalain formulations using alternative carriers

• Preparation of different formulations; emulsions, organogel and encapsulates. • PCL powder was obtained via the PGSS process. • Betalain content, antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory activity has been determined. • Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the content of betalaines. Betalains were extracted using conventional extraction method with continuous stirring for 3 hours at 40°C. The dry aqueous extract was then utilized to prepare different formulations; emulsions, organogel and encapsulates. Six emulsions with varying proportions of emulsifiers (0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2%) and three different oils (coconut, sunflower, and hemp) have been prepared. Xanthan gum, pectin, alginic acid, and powdered polycaprolactone (PCL) binder were used for betalain rich encapsulate formulations. The micronized PCL powder was obtained via the PGSS TM process at 180 bar and 80°C. Antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, total betalain content, and anti-inflammatory activity, have been determined for extracts and the formulations. PCL encapsulate had the highest antioxidant activity (2086.76 ± 44.17) μM TE/ 100 g of dried sample and the highest amount of phenolics and betalains among formulations, (369.39 ± 68.17 mg GAE/100 g for phenolics and 205.30 ± 17.59 mg/100 g for betalaines). The study indicates that PCL could be a suitable carrier for encapsulation of betalains to produce a stable pigment suitable for replacing synthetic colorants. The obtained data could also contribute enhancing the processing and development of betalain-rich formulations, aiming at their potential application in colouring and stabilization of food products.