Surface tension of Phaseolus vulgaris and coccineus proteins and effect of polysaccharides on their foaming properties

The surface tension of protein isolates from common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and scarlet runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.), prepared by isoelectric precipitation and ultrafiltration was evaluated, with respect to protein concentration (0.001–0.1% w/v) and pH (pH 4.5, 5.5, 7.0 and 8.0). Surface tension was most reduced, and with a higher rate of reduction at higher protein concentration and at pH 8.0. Foams (1, 2% w/v protein), at the same pH values, with and without the addition of polysaccharides, were studied. The proteins’ foaming behaviour was related to their adsorption behaviour. Arabic gum, locust bean gum (0.1% and 0.25% w/v), xanthan gum and a xanthan/locust bean gum mixture (0.1% w/v) had a positive effect on foam creation. All polysaccharides increased foam stability, probably due to the viscosity increase and to the creation of a network, which prevents the air droplets from coalescence. Isolates from P. coccineus and isolates obtained by ultrafiltration seemed to exhibit better foaming properties.