Effects of konjac glucomannan on pasting, rheological, and structural properties of low-amylose rice starch

Abstract Blend of starch and polysaccharide is a secure and feasible modifying method for starch. Effects of konjac glucomannan (KGM) on pasting, retrogradation, rheological and structural properties of low-amylose rice starch were evaluated. KGM addition reduced the pasting temperature, breakdown and setback values, but raised the peak viscosity. When KGM concentration increased, the storage and loss moduli showed an upward trend. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed redshifts at 3450 and 1640 cm −1 and suggested the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bond between KGM and starch molecules. X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicated that KGM decreased the relative crystallinity from 11.88 to 3.10%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of KGM induced samples showed looser network structures, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) detected less cloud-like blurry pastes surrounding around the starch ghosts. KGM addition suppressed the starch retrogradation. These results could be used to broaden the application of KGM in the food industry.