Bioactive compounds-rich powders: Influence of different carriers and drying techniques on the chemical stability of the Hibiscus acetosella extract

The effects of different drying methods (freeze- and spray-drying) and carriers (gum Arabic and inulin) on the powder characterization and stability of the bioactive compounds of Hibiscus acetosella extract (HAE) during storage were evaluated. The 1H NMR spectrum of the HAE revealed characteristic signals of the caffeoyl hydroxycitric acid. The encapsulated extract powder presented different morphology according to the drying processes. The powders produced by the freeze-drying process presented higher retention of bioactive compounds due to the low temperature process. The mixture of gum Arabic and inulin as carrier resulted in the absorption of larger amount of water. The half-life time of the encapsulated extract powders ranged from 31 to 36h (DPPH) and from 34 to 71h (phenolic compounds). In general, the powders constituted of gum Arabic and recovered by the freeze-drying process presented better protection and retention of the bioactive compounds from the HAE. [Display omitted] •Caffeoyl hydroxycitric acid was confirmed in the H. acetosella tea.•Encapsulated tea powders depend on the drying processes.•Freeze-dried powders presented higher moisture content and activity water values.•Gum Arabic freeze-dried powders better protected the bioactive compounds.