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Effects of pH, UV-B radiation and NaCl on anthocyanin stability from vivid blue petals of Clitoria ternatea L., a potential natural colourant from legume crop

Noraini Mahmad (Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
R.M. Taha (Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Pigment & Resin Technology

ISSN: 0369-9420

Article publication date: 8 August 2018

Issue publication date: 7 November 2018

213

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of pH, UV-B radiation and NaCl on anthocyanin extracted from vivid blue petals of Clitoria ternatea L. (legume crop), as a potential natural colourant for food, dye or coating technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The anthocyanin from petals of Clitoria ternatea was extracted using 0.5 per cent trifluroacetic (TFA) in methanol solution. The liquid colourant was exposed to different pH (1, 4.5 and 5.5), UV-B radiation and sodium chloride (NaCl). The results were compared using UV-vis spectrophotometric analysis.

Findings

Anthocyanins are sensitive and quickly degrade in the presence of light. In the dry powder form, the anthocyanin is easier to maintain and preserve (storage).

Research limitations/implications

Anthocyanins extracted from vivid blue petals of Clitoria ternatea L. are sensitive and quickly degrade in the presence of light.

Practical implications

The anthocyanin pigments extracted from Clitoria ternatea L. petals with methanolic acid were successfully coated on glass slides. The combination of binders and pigments had produced environmental paint which added with stabilisers (additives) for better durability. Acrylic has been known for its high weathering and embrittlement resistance, good mechanical and electrochemical properties and gloss retention.

Social implications

This anthocyanin is suitable as natural colourant especially in baby products, cosmetics production or for coating and varnish application.

Originality/value

Till date, the natural colourant of Clitoria ternatea L. petals is widely used in food. However, this result is a new finding, as there is no report on the potential of applications of this natural colourant for coating technology. Therefore, the current study with appropriate extraction method was significantly based on the relevant literatures of coating production from pigment by using other plant species. The findings and conclusion highlight the practicality as the potential applications in coating technology.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the University of Malaya, Malaysia for finance and facilities supported by the Institute of Research Management and Monitoring, IPPP (Postgraduate Grant-PG071-2013B) and University of Malaya Research Grant, UMRG (RP025-2012A).

Citation

Mahmad, N. and Taha, R.M. (2018), "Effects of pH, UV-B radiation and NaCl on anthocyanin stability from vivid blue petals of Clitoria ternatea L., a potential natural colourant from legume crop", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 47 No. 6, pp. 507-510. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-11-2016-0106

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited

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