Public Funding for Ymchwil Tetrim Research CYF

Ymchwil Tetrim Research (YTR) has a track record working with primary producers and F&D companies in the development of innovative and versatile food/drink products with plant-based ingredients, surplus food and by-products. YTR seek to optimise ginger processing through advanced spray drying, analytical and consumer testing methodology, to find new applications and options that spray drying the juice would bring. **Opportunity** Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a spice widely used across the world due to its nutritional and functional properties, containing various bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolic acid, terpenes, lipids, organic acids, vitamins, and fibre, and bioactives including shogaols, zingerones and gingerols. Ginger facilitates the bioavailability of nutrients, adds aroma and flavour to foods and is a natural preservative. Ginger provides health benefits including antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, cardiovascular, respiratory protection, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-nausea and anti-emetic activities. Ginger has great potential to be used in the design of innovative functional foods. Spray drying is a method of drying used to improve the preservation of powders as well as a method of encapsulating important bioactives/chemicals, optimising functionality. In this project we seek to examine how processing and juicing parameters, alongside spray drying temperature, carrier-type and sample:carrier ratio influence the physicochemical properties, encapsulation and loading capacity of ginger. We will examine key bioactives to ensure high purity with minimal degradation as well as test consumer perception and organoleptic properties. **Project outputs:** * Development of juices & spray-dried powders * Development of encapsulation SOPs to retain bioactives * Advanced chemical analysis * Consumer perception and organoleptic properties Product development and advanced analytical testing, coupled with consumer perception, has the potential to meet demands for enhanced functionality, nutritional quality, flavour and retention of associated health benefits. **Significance** YTR has experience in the development and commercialisation of innovative products and has access to state-of-the-art spray drying and analytical facilities. This project is underpinned by proof-of-market research with existing as well as prospective customers. **Outcome** Funding will catalyse the feasibility of advanced analytical analysis coupled with product perception and optimisation. This will allow time-to-market to develop and validate ginger-based products, to address significant UK health challenges. The process will also explore benefits of locally grown ginger and support a partnership of local growers. The project will uncover any by-product opportunities -- e.g. the pulp that remains following extracting juice; as well as exploring additional commercial opportunities for the leaves and sprouts.