Design and characterization of soy protein isolate‐chitosan‐dietary fiber ternary composite gels: effects on water holding capacity, texture and structure

Overall, DF type and concentration are critical to tailoring SPI-CS gel structure and performance. MTGase-heat treatment combined with appropriate DF addition offers an effective strategy to improve WHC and mechanical properties in composite gels. These results provide a theoretical foundation for designing high-performance gel systems with potential applications. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.