Interfacial/foaming properties and antioxidant activity of a silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae protein concentrate

The current consumer demand for healthier diets, the growing interest in the search for new sources of protein, and the desire to reduce the negative effects on the environment have increased interest in the study of insect proteins. The present study focused on the technofunctional characteristics (interfacial and foaming properties) and the in-vitro antioxidant activity of a protein concentrate obtained from silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae (SPC). The isoelectric point of the SPC was close to pH 4.0–5.0 as determined by protein solubility and z potential analysis. Given that the SPC had solubilities of ~50% and z potentials of ~20 mV at pH 2.0 and 8.0, it was decided to further study SPC properties at these pH values.