Mr. Akhilesh Modi will present his APS as per the details: 

Date: 23 September 2024

Time: 10 am–11 am.

Venue: https://monash.zoom.us/j/84370948122?pwd=QOelDJekEzrmkU27bZmOqZTFwPL38y.1

& IIT B Monash Research Academy 

Topic: Smart Plant Protein Production via upcycling of side streams of the food industry and underutilized crops

Supervisors: Prof. Amit Arora and Prof. Sushil Dhital

RPC Members: Prof. Yogendra Shastri and Lavaraj Devkota

Abstract: 

This review explores the potential of underutilized and under-researched oilseeds and oilseed cakes, such as cottonseed and rapeseed (canola), as valuable protein sources. These oilseeds have protein contents comparable to those of more commonly studied sources like soy and pea proteins but differ in protein composition. Historically used in subsistence farming, these oilseeds have gained prominence in the global agricultural sector. However, research into the extraction of proteins from cottonseed and rapeseed has not been as comprehensive as that for soy and peas. Recent advances in extraction methods, including novel dry fractionation techniques and gentler wet extraction methods like ultrafiltration, salt extraction, and dilutive precipitation, have been explored to maximize protein yield. Despite these innovations, conventional wet extraction methods, such as alkaline extraction followed by isoelectric precipitation or combination with ultrasonication, remain widely used for both rapeseed and cottonseed proteins. In addition to extraction techniques, this review highlights the functional properties of these proteins—gelation, emulsification, water-holding, oil absorption capacities, and foaming capacity—which are key to their potential use in developing meat analogues and other plant-based foods. The sustainable production of oilseed proteins aligns with global efforts to reduce resource waste and promote efficiency, contributing to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. By improving protein extraction from oilseed meals, these proteins offer a promising, sustainable avenue to tackle food security challenges. Moreover, with malnutrition affecting millions worldwide, especially in low-income regions, these protein-rich oilseeds could provide an affordable, nutritious alternative to animal-based proteins, helping to combat protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies while advancing broader sustainable development goals.