Pilot scale isolation of proteins from field peas (Pisum sativum L.) for use as food ingredients

The protein and starch fractions of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) are potentially a source of novel ingredients for food processing. As part of research to elucidate the functional properties of held pea proteins, the pilot scale extraction of proteins has been undertaken. Two different approaches have been used and the recoveries of protein compared. The first involved extraction with a salt solution followed by decanting and clarification to remove solids. The solution was then further concentrated and salt removed by ultrafiltration and diafiltration. The second procedure was based upon alkaline extraction followed by decanting and recovery by isoelectric precipitation and neutralisation. Both spray drying and freeze drying methods were employed. The protein isolates have been compared and characterised with respect to solubility, chemical composition and to electrophoretic patterns. Overall, the proteins extracted with salt exhibited better physical properties than proteins extracted with alkali, in terms of colour and particle size. The solubilities showed little variation and the electrophoretic patterns were similar. Freeze drying resulted in isolates with darker colour compared with spray drying.