Chemical composition and functional properties of mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) egg protein concentrates and their application in pasta

Protein concentrates were prepared from underutilized mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) roe to produce value added by-products for food applications. Chemical composition and physicochemical properties of protein concentrates prepared from mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) roes were determined. The effects of pH and salt concentration on protein solubility were investigated. The protein content of the concentrates was found to be 75, and 91%, respectively for dehydrated and defatted powders. The maximum protein solubility was observed at pH 12, while minimum protein solubility was observed at pH 5, for both dehydrated and defatted protein concentrates. Salt concentration (0.1 to 1 M Nacl) significantly affected the solubility of protein concentrates. The mineral analysis revealed substantial amounts of iron and phosphorus. The emulsifying capacities of dehydrated and defatted protein concentrates were noted as 5.9, and 7.1 ml/g protein, respectively. SDS-PAGE analysis of fresh, dehydrated and defatted roe proteins has revealed the presence of major protein with a molecular weight (MW) of 97 kDa. Addition of defatted fish egg protein concentrate to pasta preparations had improved taste and texture. The results indicated that protein concentrates from underutilized mrigal fish egg may be useful for preparing protein rich food supplements.