Production of vitex (Vitex agnus-castus L.) extract in powder form using spray-drying: Potential for the production of functional foods

摘要

Vitex (Vitex agnus-castusL.) have bioactive compounds with potential to reduce thesymptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome, as proved by several studies.However, such compounds may have low stability, and the spicy sensation caused byvitex fruits is a challenge for application in foods. Thus, the aim of this study was toproduce microparticles by spray-dryingloaded with vitex extract, and evaluate thephysical and chemical properties of the powders for further application in new functionalfoods. The powders presented good process yield (ca. 63.4%) and retention (ca.77.7%), volume weighted mean diameter of approximately 20.3 μm, and high stabilityof the bioactive compounds during the storage. Moreover, they showed good storagestability in different relative humidity, and they were classified as very low hygroscopicpowders. Overall, these results are very promising and they may promote theproduction of a potential functional ingredient for new functional foods.