The Physicochemical Properties and Structure of Mung Bean Starch Fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum

Understanding the relationship between gel formation and the hierarchical structure of mung bean starch fermented by <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> has potential value for its green modification and quality improvement. The variations in characteristics, including gelation characteristics, starch chain, and the molecular order degree of mung bean starch fermented by different <i>L. plantarum</i>, were compared. The results show that in the gelation process, starch began to disintegrate at 65 °C, indicating a critical temperature for structural changes. Compared with the control group, although the effects of different <i>L. plantarum sources</i> on mung bean starch varied, notable improvements were observed in water absorption across all groups of fermented starch, along with reduced free water-soluble substances and enhanced anti-expansion ability. This led to the easier formation of gels with higher viscosity, primarily attributed to decreased crystallinity, increased short-chain amylopectin tendency, an elevated amylose content, and enhanced short-range order when microorganisms acted on the crystallization zone. In conclusion, although <i>L. plantarum</i> came from different sources, its action mode on mung bean starch was similar, which could enhance the gel structure.