Effects of particle size on physicochemical and functional properties of superfine black kidney bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) powder.

Black kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) powder (BKBP) with particle sizes of 250-180, 180-125, 125-75, 75-38, and < 38 mu m was prepared by using coarse and eccentric vibratory milling, respectively. Physicochemical properties, cholesterol adsorption, and antioxidant activities of powders were investigated. Size and scanning electron microscopy analyses showed that particle size of BKBP could be effectively decreased after the superfine grinding treatment, and the specific surface area was increased. Flow properties, hydration properties, thermal stability, and cholesterol adsorption efficiency significantly improved with the reducing of particle size. The superfine powder with sizes of 75 38 or < 38 mu m exhibited higher antioxidant activity via 2,2 diphenyl 1-picryhydrazyl, hydroxyl radical-scavenging, and ferrous ion-chelating assays. The results indicated that the BKBP with a size of < 38 mu m could serve as a better potential biological resource for food additives, and could be applied for the development of low-cholesterol products.