Electro-activation for efficient lactulose production: The impact of operational parameters, electrolyte types, and environmental conditions
International Dairy Journal, cilt.160, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 160
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2024.106077
- Dergi Adı: International Dairy Journal
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Compendex
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Electro-activation, Electro-isomerization, Lactose, Lactulose, Whey powder
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
The electro-activation (EA) process has been employed to convert lactose into lactulose, a potent prebiotic with numerous health benefits. The study identified optimal conditions for lactulose production, including a specific current density, the use of calcium chloride as an efficient electrolyte, and the superiority of a steel cathode over a graphite cathode. The formation of intermediates other than lactulose increased as the temperature increased. The changes in pH and oxidation-reduction potential during the isomerization process were observed, highlighting their vital role in the formation of an ideal alkaline environment for lactulose production. The resultant solution produced by the EA process has significant antioxidant characteristics, likely due to the formation of Maillard Reaction Products during lactulose production. In conclusion, the EA system, with optimal operating conditions, is an energy-efficient, reagent-free, and environmentally friendly alternative for lactulose production.