Speaker
Dr
Grethe Vestergaard Jensen
(NBI, University of Copenhagen)
Description
Neutron scattering holds a lot of relatively unexploited potential for food science, including industrial research and development. Examples of applications from the dairy industry will be presented, showing how small-angle scattering of neutrons and X-rays (SANS and SAXS) can be applied to study milk protein in the form of casein micelles.
The internal structure of casein micelles, resuspended from a powder isolate, is studied for samples supplied by Arla Food Ingredients Group P/S. The sample processing affects the structure of the micelles, and thereby also their functionality, related to the various potential applications of the powder.
The self-association of casein micelles upon acidification is investigated in collaboration with DuPont Nutrition Biosciences ApS. To avoid macroscopic aggregation, and the associated unpleasant mouth-feel, the casein micelles can be stabilised with pectin, and the structural effect of different pectins is determined.
The studies were conducted as part of the NXUS initiative (Neutron and X-ray User Support). NXUS is jointly funded by the University of Copenhagen and the Capital Region of Denmark, and is one of the projects that have been initiated following the heavy Danish investments in the European Spallation Source (ESS) and the synchrotron facility MAX IV in Lund. The aim is to investigate the potential and barriers for increased industrial and academic use of this type of facilities, and to gain experience on which role specialised university groups might play in this agenda. A series of case studies have been conducted with different companies, ranging from pharma- and biotech to manufacturers of paint and catalysts, serving as illustrative examples. The work now continues in the industry portal LINX, which is supported by Innovation Fund Denmark, includes partners from industry and universities, and covers more experimental techniques.
| Topic Area / Session | Dairy |
|---|
Primary author
Dr
Grethe Vestergaard Jensen
(NBI, University of Copenhagen)
Co-authors
Dr
Alexander Björling
(Niels Bohr Institute, Copenhagen University)
Prof.
Lise Arleth
(Niels Bohr Institute, Copenhagen University)
Dr
Nicholas Skar-Gislinge
(Niels Bohr Institute, Copenhagen University)
Mr
Soren Midtgaard
(University og Copenhagen)
Mr
Søren Kynde
(NBI, Copenhagen)
