Mung bean protein is a plant-based protein derived from mung beans (Vigna radiata), which are known for their high protein content (20%–32%) and balanced nutritional profile. Mung bean protein is composed mainly of albumin and globulin, with 8S vicilin being a major component. It is an emerging alternative to animal proteins and other plant proteins like soy and pea due to its excellent nutritional and functional properties.
Nutritional Value: Mung bean protein contains a high proportion of essential amino acids, including lysine, leucine, and isoleucine, and meets the FAO/WHO recommendations for adult amino acid intake, except for sulfur-containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine.
Health Benefits: It has demonstrated various bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemia, antihypertensive, and anti-cancer properties。 Mung bean protein hydrolysates also exhibit ACE inhibitory activity, which can help lower blood pressure.
Digestibility: Mung bean protein is relatively easy to digest and absorb compared to some other plant proteins.
Functional Properties: It has excellent solubility, water and oil absorption capacity, emulsifying properties, foaming properties, and gelation ability, making it suitable for various food applications.
Application
Food Industry: Mung bean protein can be used as an additive in various food products, such as emulsion-based foods, meat analogs, noodles, and edible packaging films。 Its functional properties make it a valuable ingredient for improving texture, stability, and shelf life.
Health Foods: Due to its health benefits, mung bean protein is a promising ingredient for developing functional foods and dietary supplements.
Meat Alternatives: Its texturizing properties make it suitable for plant-based meat substitutes.
Edible Films: Mung bean protein can be used as an antioxidant edible film additive to enhance the shelf life and quality of food products.
Bioactive Compound Carriers: It can be used to encapsulate and deliver bioactive compounds in food and pharmaceutical applications.