Evaluation of yam (Dioscorea rotundata) mucilage as a stabilizer in the production of mango nectar

Instability in fruit drinks is a phenomenon that affects sensory and physical-chemical properties, which consumers perceive as lack of quality. Yam mucilage was evaluated as a stabilizer in the production of mango nectar. In addition, physicochemical characteristics, physical and rheological stability were determined. A completely randomized design with factorial arrangement (2 × 4) was utilized. The factors were the concentration of the stabilizers, and the yam mucilage:carboxymethylcellulose ratio. Results showed that physicochemical properties comply with Colombian regulations and, as the proportion of carboxymethylcellulose decreased in the mucilage:CMC ratio, the absolute value of zeta potential decreased. Rheologically, mango nectar exhibit overall shear-thinning (pseudoplastic) and thixotropic properties. Results indicate that yam mucilage should be used in a mixture with other hydrocolloids.