The health benefits, functional properties, modifications, and applications of pea (Pisum sativum L.) protein: Current status, challenges, and perspectives

Jiao Ge, Cui Xia Sun, Harold Corke, Khalid Gul, Ren You Gan*, Yapeng Fang*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

140 Scopus citations

Abstract

In recent years, the development and application of plant proteins have drawn increasing scientific and industrial interests. Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important source of high-quality vegetable protein in the human diet. Its protein components are generally considered hypoallergenic, and many studies have highlighted the health benefits associated with the consumption of pea protein. Pea protein and its hydrolysates (pea protein hydrolysates [PPH]) possess health benefits such as antioxidant, antihypertensive, and modulating intestinal bacteria activities, as well as various functional properties, including solubility, water- and oil-holding capacities, and emulsifying, foaming, and gelling properties. However, the application of pea protein in the food system is limited due to its poor functional performances. Several frequently applied modification methods, including physical, chemical, enzymatic, and combined treatments, have been used for pea protein to improve its functional properties and expand its food applications. To date, different applications of pea protein in the food system have been extensively studied, for example, encapsulation for bioactive ingredients, edible films, extruded products and substitution for cereal flours, fats, and animal proteins. This article reviews the current status of the knowledge regarding pea protein, focusing on its health benefits, functional properties, and structural modifications, and comprehensively summarizes its potential applications in the food industry.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1835-1876
Number of pages42
JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety
Volume19
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jul 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • applications
  • functional properties
  • health benefits
  • modifications
  • pea protein

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