Characterization of Lotus Stem (Nelumbo nucifera) Starches Purified From Three Lakes of India

Starch was isolated from lotus stem obtained from three lakes of Jammu and Kashmir, India, and their physicochemical, morphological, and pasting properties were studied. Protein, fat, and amylose content varied significantly (p ≤ 0.05) among the different starches, but no significant difference was found in ash content. Amylose content was highest in lotus stem starch from Manasbal (30.0%), followed by the Dal (28.3%), and the Wular (25.0%). Functional properties like swelling, solubility, and water absorption showed an increasing trend with an increase in temperature from 50–90°C. Scanning electron microscopy of lotus stem starches showed small rounded and typical oval shaped granules with a smooth surface. The starch extracted from Wular and Dal lotus stems had larger granules than Manasbal starch. All the starches obtained from the three sources gave a similar B-type X-ray diffraction pattern. Pasting properties—such as pasting temperature, peak viscosity, breakdown, setback, and final viscosity—significantly differed among starches.