Okra mucilage: A review of physicochemical properties, extraction techniques and industrial applications

Abstract

Okra mucilage is a natural bioactive polysaccharide which has received considerable attention in the food and pharmaceutical industries because of its unique viscosity, biocompatibility and functional properties. Recent Literature This review summarizes recent literature focusing on the phytochemical profile of okra, comparing extraction mechanisms based on cold-water extraction as well as conventional sun-drying and hot-air oven drying. Abstract: Published evidence indicates that processing conditions are the keystone for macromolecular integrity, antioxidant retention, and rheological behavior. Preservation of native polysaccharide networks and heat-sensitive bioactives can be accomplished by gentle non-thermal extraction, while controlled drying helps promote storage stability for commercial powder productions. Finally, it describes industrial application for fat replacement, emulsion stabilization and mucoadhesive drug delivery and emphasises major barriers with standardisation of products or processes as well as scaling up. Lastly, the future avenues for enhancing okra hydrocolloids commercial valuable applications are outlined.