Synergistic effect of polysaccharides, betalain pigment and phenolic compounds of red prickly pear ( Opuntia stricta ) in the stabilization of salami

Abstract The aim of this work is to try to substitute some synthetic additives by a natural extract from red prickly pear ( Opuntia stricta ) which known by its richness on bioactive polysaccharides mainly consisting of galactose, rhamnose and galacturonic acid. This natural fruit has a high content of carbohydrates above 18.81% FM. It contains also a high level of polyphenols 152.25 ± 0.26 μg QE/mg PPE and flavonoids about 370.60 ± 0.12 μg GAE/mg of PPE. In addition, prickly pear extract (PPE) displayed a strong antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. These activities are likely due to its phenolic, flavonoid and carbohydrate contents. Moreover, the addition of 2.5% of PPE, as a natural colorant and antimicrobial agent in salami formulation, causes a decrease in hardness and chewiness of the formulated salami. Interestingly, PPE inhibited bacterial growth in salami stored at 4 °C over 30 days. Sensorial analysis shows that the color, taste and texture of salami prepared with 2.5% of PPE are markedly more appreciated by panelists. Our results suggest that the betalain pigment, carbohydrate and phenolic compounds present in PPE could be used as a natural colorant, antioxidant and antimicrobial agent without change of the sensory characteristics.