Nur Raudhatul S. Mohd Radzi, Noroul A. Zulkifli, Nurul Huda, Ishamri Ismail
The growing consumer shift toward sustainable and health-conscious eating has spurred innovation in plant-based meat alternatives. Among emerging strategies, transglutaminase (TG) is gaining attention as a promising, health-friendly bio-binder that can enhance the structural and functional properties of meat analogs. This study developed plant-based meat analog patties (PBMAP) using textured vegetable protein (TVP) and seitan in three ratios (30:70, 50:50, 70:30), alongside different binder formulations: 2% methylcellulose (MC), 2% TG, and a combination of 1% MC + 1% TG. These patties were benchmarked against a conventional beef patty (control, CON) and evaluated for key physicochemical attributes including visual appearance, cooking loss, color, texture, and surface area. PBMAPs closely resembled CON in appearance but showed significantly reduced shrinkage (p < 0.05). Higher seitan content correlated with firmer texture (0.31–3.18 N), although the CON remained substantially tougher (13.77 N, p < 0.05). TG-enriched formulations also demonstrated superior moisture retention and increased surface area, with reduced cooking loss (p < 0.05). While PBMAPs had lower lightness (L*), their redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) were not significantly affected by protein ratio or binder type. Overall, formulations containing 70% seitan with either 2% TG or a 1% MC + 1% TG blend achieved improved texture and functional performance, making them promising candidates for next-generation meat analogs. Nevertheless, color differences remain a challenge in replicating the full sensory profile of traditional beef. These findings offer valuable insights into the synergistic effects of TG and MC on the quality of plant-based meat products. © 2025, Jambi University. All rights reserved.
Department of Food Industry, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut Campus, Terengganu, Besut, 22200, Malaysia; Postgraduate School, Universitas Brawijaya, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia
