Application of ultrasound treatment for modulating the structural, functional and rheological properties of black bean protein isolates

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Summary The modulating effect of ultrasound treatments at varying powers and times on the structural and functional properties of black bean protein isolate (BBPI) was investigated. Compared with native BBPI, low‐power (150 W) and medium‐power (300 W) ultrasound treatments increased the solubility, foaming and emulsifying properties of BBPI, especially at 300 W, 24 min. This effect arises predominantly due to increased exposure of hydrophobic groups, which serve to increase the interactions between the protein and water molecules. Additionally, an increase in the protein surface activity improved the absorption of protein molecules at the oil–water and air–water interfaces. Rheology data showed that increased hydrophobic and hydrogen‐bonding interactions improved the water‐holding capacity of BBPI gels following ultrasound treatment. However, high‐power (450 W) ultrasound treatment weakened the functional properties of BBPI, and this was likely due to the formation of macromolecular BBPI aggregates. Overall, this study indicates that ultrasound treatment could be a promising approach for modulating other plant protein resources as well as expanding the application of black bean protein.