Influence of Extraction Techniques on the Physicochemical Characteristics and Industrial Applications of Chayote (Sechium edule) Tuber Starch

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of different starch extraction methods properties of chayote (Sechium edule) tuber starch. Chayote, a tuberous plant rich in starch, was subjected to both physical and chemical extraction methods, with treatments including water, sodium hydroxide, and sodium metabisulfite. The study evaluated for particle size, bulk density, flow ability, pH, amylose, amylopectin content, water and oil absorption capacity, and starch paste clarity. Starch clarity was highest in treatments using sodium metabisulfite, with clarity values up to 73.26%, high clarity, suitable for transparent applications. Treatment T7, which used sodium metabisulfite, yielded the highest amylopectin content (70.46%), making it flexible and ideal for applications requiring low retrogradation, ensuring long-term stability in food products and other applications. such as edible coatings. The study concludes that chayote tuber starch shows great potential for industrial applications such as in coatings, baked goods, thickening agents, and biodegradable packaging materials, with the extraction method significantly affecting its physical and chemical properties. Treatment T7 is recommended for optimal starch yield, clarity, and amylopectin content, making it suitable for use in coatings and food formulations requiring flexibility and stability. These results are also important for producing innovative and sustainable products, providing options to traditional starch sources and encouraging the use of underutilized crops like chayote.