Drying and characterization of red beet color liquid process waste to develop a novel bulking agent

For cleaner and sustainable production, industrial food waste reuse studies are great of importance. In this study, to develop a novel bulking agent from the liquid wastes of colorant production processes obtained from red beet extract (RBW), an optimization study with an 18-point experimental point was performed in a pilot spray dryer by using maltodextrin as a carrier material for drying. The spray drying inlet temperature (120–140 °C) and the ratios of carrier agent (10%–25%) and liquid waste (75%–90%) in the feed solution were independent variables. Optimization responses were drying yield (44.4–86.6%) and moisture content (1.39–3.89 g/100 g). In addition, physicochemical (water activity, color, pH), particle size distribution, and various powder characteristics of the samples were investigated. Significant models for responses were determined (P 80.0%). According to our results, it may be possible to prevent the release of RBW which has high COD and BOD values and to decrease the production and waste treatment costs of the colorant industry. However, the limitations of the novel bulking agent as residual pigments and total ash content should be considered for further food applications. [Display omitted] •To develop a more sustainable solution for red beet color liquid process waste (RBW) valorization was aimed.•The RBW drying yield increased with the increase in the amount of carrier material (maltodextrin).•Due to moisture content and water activity results, RBW powders with high stability were obtained.•By using the developed process, it can be possible to obtain a cleaner production.•Ash content and residual pigment content were the main limitations of developed novel bulking agent.