Whey protein beads were successfully produced using a new emulsification/cold gelation method. The principle of this method is based on an emulsifying step followed by a Ca(2+)-induced gelation of pre-denatured (80 degreesC/30 min) whey protein. Beads are formed by the dropwise addition of the suspension into a calcium chloride (CaCl(2)) solution. IR results show that bead formation has a pronounced effect on the secondary structure of whey protein, which leads to the formation of intermolecular hydrogen-bonded beta-sheet structures. Their preparation conditions (CaCl(2) concentrations of 10, 15, and 20% (w/w)) influence their sphericity and homogeneity: an increase in CaCl(2) favors regular-shaped beads. The physicochemical and mechanical characterizations of beads were also carried out. Their properties, such as swelling, elasticity, deformability, and resistance at fracture, change according to pH levels (1.9, 4.5, and 7.5) and preparation conditions. Indeed, protein chain networks exhibit different behavior patterns with respect to their charge. Finally, bead degradation by enzymatic hydrolysis reveals that beads are gastroresistant and form good matrixes to protect fat-soluble bioactive molecules such as retinol, that have in vivo intestinal absorption sites. The experiment demonstrated the potential of whey protein beads to protect molecules sensitive (i.e., vitamins) to oxidation.

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Research on fish composition has demonstrated that they constitute a promising source of molecules with health benefits. In the present study, Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) was processed using ProtamexÒ and the distribution of nutrients in various fractions obtained following membrane filtration was analysed. The fish starting material was approximately 84% water and the dry matter contained 42.7% proteins, 45.2% lipids and 5.6% minerals. The recovery of fish dry matter in the liquid hydrolysate was 77.8%. Most of the fractions were protein-enriched and characterised by a well-balanced amino acid composition, notably in terms of the most essential amino acids and by molecules of relatively low molecular weight (£42 kDa). Even before process optimising, the biochemical and nutritional analyses indicate that the Atlantic mackerel may provide high-value products for future applications in the health and food sectors.

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