Electrospun Food-Grade Ultrafine Fibers from Pectin and Pullulan Blends

Abstract

Electrospinning was used to produce ultrafine fibers and fibrous mats from aqueous solutions containing two edible polysaccharides: pectin (PEC) and pullulan (PUL). The process excluded the use of a synthetic carrier polymer or non-aqueous solvents thus maintaining the food-grade status of the components. The inclusion of PUL reduced the surface tension and electric conductivity of pectin solution, and promoted molecular entanglement between PEC and PUL as confirmed by rheological analysis. The spinnability of either polysaccharide was promoted by inclusion of the other. Cross-linking PEC networks were obtained by soaking the fibrous mats in successive Ca2+ solution. The fibrous mats can be used to carry bioactive compounds as demonstrated using probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) as a model bioactive compound. The research is significant for the development of food products with unique textures and functionalities.