Betalains-natural pigments for healthy food

Abstract

The application of artificial colors in practice has shown many negative effects on food safety and human health. Allergic reactions to artificial colors are very common, especially in children. Some research suggests that prolonged use of artificial colors can be the cause of cancer. Betaine is one of the most widespread groups of plant pigments, which is increasingly being researched in recent times. Therefore, the use of cheap plant pigments such as betaine is important. They are safe for use in food and have good biological and pharmacological properties. Some of them have an antioxidant, antimicrobial, antilipidemic, anticancer role. They can be used in food instead of anthocyanins. Some properties are beneficial to our health due to which they can be used to enhance the flavor and color of ice-cream, jellies, jams, desserts, sauces, sweets, tomato paste, breakfast cereals.