Encapsulation and characterization of betalain pigments from beta vulgaris using ultrasonication-assisted microbead formulation

Purpose The purpose of the present study was to optimize and characterize the extraction process for betalains and optimize the prepared formulations with the extracts. In recent years, natural dyes made from plants have become more popular because they are safer and better for the environment compared to synthetic dyes, which can be harmful to health and nature. Betalain, which is mainly found in beetroot (Beta vulgaris) was used in this study. Betalains are known for their bright colors and are widely considered for use in food and textile industries. Design/methodology/approach In this study, betalain pigments were extracted from beetroot using ultrasonication with aqueous medium. Following extraction, stability of the extracts was tested under different conditions. The effect of pH was evaluated using buffers of different pH. The stability of the extracts was also tested under varied temperature conditions to evaluate heat sensitivity. To check long-term stability, the pigments were stored for one month at ambient temperature and evaluated to check the pigment degradation. Betalain extracted was further encapsulated in the form of microbeads. Sequential simplex design was used for the optimization of formulations and the optimized formulation was characterized. Findings Ultrasonication was used for extraction because it helps release the pigments more effectively while avoiding too much heat that can damage them. The results showed that pH had a significant impact on the color of betalains. In some pH conditions, the pigments changed color, which suggests that their structure might also change. It was also found that betalains are sensitive to high temperatures and degrade when exposed to heat for some time. This shows that controlling temperature is very important when processing or storing these pigments. Stability studies showed, with time, the pigments degraded, losing color intensity, which means they are not stable during storage. The pigment entrapped within microbead formulation was released in a sustained manner. The encapsulation efficiency and yield percentages were high. SEM studies showed the texture of the beads whose size ranged from 50 to 80 µm. Originality/value Thus, through this study, extraction method was optimized and extracts were characterized through various studies. The extracts were further entrapped in microbeads and the formulation was characterized and optimized.