Different powder particle size combined with ultrasound-assisted enzymolysis: Effects on physicochemical, functional and antioxidant properties of Acheta domesticus protein hydrolysate

Abstract

This study prepared Acheta domesticus protein hydrolysate (ADPH) using house cricket powder with different particle sizes and ultrasound-assisted enzymolysis. The results demonstrated that using of ultrafine powder and ultrasonic treatment during enzymatic hydrolysis significantly increased the amino acid content of the ADPH and rendered its microstructure more porous and loose. Structural analysis (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy) revealed that ultrafine powder and ultrasonic treatment further disrupted the secondary and tertiary structures of cricket protein, diminished α-helix/β-turn content, and reduced the surface hydrophobicity of the hydrolysate. In terms of functional properties, ultrafine powder and ultrasonic treatment enhanced the foaming and emulsifying capabilities of the ADPH, while improving its thermal stability, crystallinity, and antioxidant activity. Moreover, the combined application of the two methods during enzymatic hydrolysis significantly enhances the functional properties and antioxidant activity of ADPH. These findings suggest that combination of ultrafine powder and ultrasonic treatment is a promising method for improving the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of hydrolysate.