Functional, thermal and rheological properties of oat β-glucan modified by acetylation.

Fibers of β-glucan have been added to foods for their thickening properties, their ability to form gel at low concentrations, but mainly for their appeal in health promotion. Current analysis evaluates the influence of acetylation (4% and 6% acetic anhydride for 10 and 20 min) on the functional, thermal, morphological and rheological properties of the concentrate containing 31% of oat β-glucan. The degree of substitution of the acetylated β-glucans ranged from 0.03 to 0.12, suitable for use in foods. Acetylation increased the heterogeneity of molecule degradation and promoted a more compacted hole-less microstructure. Functional properties such as the swelling power and bile acid binding capacity were increased by acetylation. The β-glucan gel showed a reduction in hardness and adhesiveness, which was confirmed by its rheological behavior similar to liquid. The above information is relevant to establish the industrial application of acetylated β-glucan.