Effects of galactomannans of varied structural features on the functional characteristics and in vitro digestibility of wheat starch

This study explores the effects of four natural galactomannans (GMs) with varying degrees of branching (fenugreek gum, guar gum, tara gum and locust bean gum) on the functional properties and in vitro digestibility of wheat starch (WS). Results from rapid viscosity analysis (RVA) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analysis revealed that GMs with lower branching degrees were correlated with higher paste viscosity, peak viscosity, and greater water-holding capacity in the WS-GM mixtures. Additionally, these lower branching GMs more effectively inhibited amylose leaching during starch gelatinization, leading to a softer gel texture and increased transparency of the mixtures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis demonstrated that starch mixtures containing lower branching GMs exhibited reduced relative crystallinity and enthalpy values during aging. Furthermore, the incorporation of lower branching GMs resulted in decreased starch digestibility in vitro, thereby enhanced resistant starch content. These findings highlight the potential of selectively branched GMs to modulate the functional properties and nutritional profile of WS, providing a promising approach for the development of starch-based products with improved health benefits.