Pozyskiwanie barwników betalainowych z biomasy dla celów przemysłu spożywczego

Betalains are natural pigments, which are used as colorants in food industry. Synthesis of these pigments is unprofitable, therefore they are obtained by extraction from a plant biomass in industrial scale. The most beneficial source of betalains are red beet root (Beta vulgaris L.), flowers and seeds of several species of Amarantus as well as fruits of selected plant among Cactaceae family like Opuntia ficus-indica. Food colorants, which are commercially availa- ble have to meet the legislative requirements of the law and be approved for use by the WHO (World Health Organization) and FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) commission for the food additives.