Passion fruit juice, known for its vibrant flavor and nutritional benefits, has captivated the hearts of many consumers worldwide. However, the extraction process can be challenging, often resulting in lower yields and compromised quality. Enter Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology—a revolutionary method that is transforming the way we extract juices. In this post, we’ll explore recent results achieved by OptiCept and how PEF technology can benefit the extraction of passion fruit juice, enhancing both its yield and quality.
Passion fruit and its derived products are increasingly more popular, thanks to the adoption of passion fruit extracts in numerous novel applications in food & beverages as well as cosmetics industries. It is also used as an organic and natural solution for treating insomnia.
As mentioned, the extraction process can be challenging, often resulting in lower yields and compromised quality. This is where OptCepts PEF technology for juice extraction can make a significant difference.
Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology involves applying short bursts of high-voltage electrical current to food products. This process creates temporary pores on the fruit pulp (tissue) cell membranes, a phenomenon known as electroporation. By increasing the permeability of the cell membranes, PEF facilitates the release of intracellular contents, making it easier to extract juice and other valuable compounds. Learn more in this post: What is PEF (Pulsed Electric Field)
One of the primary advantages of PEF technology in the extraction of passion fruit juice is the significant increase in yield.
Traditional extraction methods can leave a substantial amount of juice trapped within the fruit’s cells. PEF technology, however, ensures that more juice is released from the fruit, leading to higher extraction efficiency.
This not only maximizes the use of raw materials but also contributes to more sustainable production practices. Recently, the OptiCept team conducted trials in their lab in Lund, Sweden, to confirm these effects.
Using OptiCepts patented method, the team accomplished an increase in the extraction of passion fruit juice by up to 7,5% as the traditional mechanical pressing only.
Furthermore, the Brix value (dissolved sugars) of the PEF-assisted passion juice extraction was significantly increased. A high Brix value indicates a good taste and quality of your product. The taste of your end products will be sweeter when the Brix value is high.
OptiCepts Senior process developer and PhD, Ivo Achu Nges, comments further:
“It is therefore plausible to state that the PEF-assisted extraction also led to the enhancement of other vital macro and micro-nutrients.”
PEF technology not only boosts the quantity of juice extracted but also enhances its quality. The gentle nature of PEF treatment helps preserve the nutritional and sensory attributes of passion fruit juice. Key benefits include:
The benefits of PEF technology extend beyond merely extracting juice. It can also be used to enhance other processes related to passion fruit, such as:
One recent example is the results using OptiCepts PEF technology at the Italian research institute CREA. Where shelf-life of fresh blood orange juice was extended by 15-20 days using PEF, with quality improvements as well.
Treating passion fruit juice with PEF in OptiCepts lab, increased the yield by 7,5%, furthermore, it increased the Brix value significantly, making the juice sweeter and tastier.
Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology represents a game-changing innovation in the extraction of passion fruit juice. By increasing yield, improving quality, and reducing energy consumption, PEF offers a sustainable and efficient solution that benefits both producers and consumers. As the demand for high-quality, nutritious, and sustainably produced fruit juices continues to grow, embracing PEF technology could be the key to unlocking the full potential of passion fruit juice.
If you’re interested in exploring how PEF technology can revolutionize your juice extraction processes, contact OptiCept Technologies to learn more about our state-of-the-art PEF systems and how they can be tailored to meet your production needs.
We are happy to help you with any questions and thought you might have.
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