Betalaine Yield from a Continuous Solid-Liquid Extraction System as Influenced by Raw Product, Post-Harvest and Processing Variables

Betalaine recoveries from Mono-King Explorer, Mono-King Burgundy and Ruby Queen table beet cultivars were studied in a continuous solid-liquid extraction system. Roots of Mono-King Explorer and Mono-King Burgundy contained more betacyanines and betaxanthines than those of Ruby Queen and also showed a higher betacyanine recovery from the extraction system (P < 0.05). Similar results for betacyanine recoveries were found in the second year study (P < 0.01). Storage of raw beet roots at 1°C and 85% RH for 5 months resulted in a 32–34% moisture and trimming loss prior to processing; however, the usable raw beet tissue showed similar recovery characteristics to those processed immediately after harvest. The red/yellow ratios reflected a less intense red-violet color in juices extracted from long-term stored roots. Small roots (4.6–6.4 cm diameters) tended to yield higher betacyanine juices than those from large roots (6.4–9.0 cm diameters. P < 0.05). Raw beet roots treated by the abrasion peeling method resulted in initial pigment losses and also contributed to further pigment losses during extraction.