Wheat Germ Protein Flour Solubility and Water Retention

The effects of pH and temperature on water retention (WR), protein solubility (PS), and total solubility (TS) of defatted wheat germ protein flour (WGPF) were studied in a model system. PS of WGPF was compared with those of corn germ protein flour (CGPF), soy flour (SF), nonfat dried milk (NFDM), and egg white powder (EWP) at 1–8%. WR increased with increase in pH from 4 to 8. Maximum WR occurred at 70°C, and slight variations were observed between 5 and 30°C. PS and TS increased with increases in pH and temperature. PS of proteins was in the order of NFDM > EWP > SF > CGPF=WGPF. The results showed the potential for usage of WGPF in comminuted meats, beef patties, breads, cakes, and cookies.