The Characterization of Sugar Beet Pectin using the EcoSEC® GPC System Coupled to Multi-Angle Light Scattering, Quasi-Elastic Light Scattering, and Differential Viscometry

The need to increase the use of low valued co-products derived from the processing of sugar beets has prompted the investigation of the structure of the pectin extracted from sugar beet pulp. The characterization of sugar beet pectin is essential as it has the potential to be used in the production of industrial products, e.g., as an emulsifying agent in food systems. This added use of sugar beet-pectin should be of help to sugar beet growers and processors by increasing the demand and value of their by-product without increasing the cost of sugar to the consumer. Here we discuss the characterization of sugar beet pectin utilizing the EcoSEC GPC System with an internal dual-flow differential refractive index detector and UV detector coupled to multi-angle light scattering, quasi-elastic light scattering, and differential viscometry. Implementing this multi-detector SEC technique allowed for the determination of the molar mass averages, in a calibrant-independent fashion, as well as several sizing parameters.