Novozymes’ latest addition to its range of solutions for juice production is Pectinex Ultra Color, which has been specifically developed to aid in the processing of berries and Concord grapes. The outcome of a unique union between two fermentation technologies, this blended pectinase product is even suitable for organic production.
A taste for good quality
To produce berry and grape juice, the first step in the mashing process it to press the fruit to extract juice. During this process enzymes have been proven to help optimize juice yields. Mashing and depectinization products such as Pectinex Ultra Color facilitate juice extraction by degrading soluble pectin to improve the release of juice from the fruit matrix.
Although other pectinases can provide similar extraction results, Pectinex Ultra Color is unique in that it intensifies and increases the color extract from the fruit while aiding stabilization, clarification, and filtration by reducing the difficulties encountered in downstream processing. It is actually because of this increased efficiency in processing that the color enhancement is achieved. The low pectin content of the mash reduces the need for refining agents that can negatively affect color.
Bottling the benefits
With many juice producers concentrating on the production of grapes and berries, their unique health benefits are worth mentioning. Most contain powerful antioxidants considered to be valuable dietary aids in reducing the likelihood of diseases caused by oxidative stress. Bilberries and raspberries contain compounds that are believed to inhibit and even fight certain types of human cancer cells, and they are also rich in lutein, which is celebrated for its contribution to healthy vision. Aronia and black currants are exceptionally high in vitamin C, and cranberries offer potent antibacterial benefits that help prevent infection. Also abundant in vitamin C are Concord grapes, which are thought to promote healthy vision and blood pressure. Pectinex Ultra Color can help manufacturers to maximize these healthy attributes in their products, increasing their appeal to consumers.
Better products and improved processing
Not only does Pectinex Ultra Color enhance the desirable properties of the final juice product, but it also improves the flexibility of production processes. Improved pressability, coupled with significantly lower turbidity during mashing, eases the clarification and filtration stages during juice production. The reduction in insoluble solids left after mashing also enables smoother filtration. These improvements can be visualized through an alcohol test, which reveals an almost negative pectin result in the remaining pectin mash. Combined with a reduced holding time, the resulting overall juice production capacity is increased, especially when applied to decanters. Fusing efficiency with flexibility, Pectinex Ultra Color demonstrates the same superior benefits with both fresh and frozen berries and grapes, and in conjunction with all solid–liquid separation equipment.