The influence of the interaction between whey protein and erythritol on protein conformation, interfacial properties and stability

This study investigated the impact of erythritol (ERY) on structural and functional properties of whey protein isolate (WPI). FTIR and CD revealed that WPI underwent structural changes, including formation of β‐folds and random coils, upon interaction with 20 mg/mL ERY. SEM showed increased surface roughness of WPI, indicating enhanced protein exposure. Moreover, binding rate exceeded 85%, accompanied by increased surface hydrophobicity. Fluorescence spectroscopy indicated a red shift in fluorescence of WPI and tyrosine (Tyr) residues, altering polarity of Tyr environment due to ERY coordination. Additionally, ERY presence enhanced the functional properties of WPI, including foaming, freeze–thaw stability, rheology and antioxidant activity.