Starch hydration properties in relation to kinetic modelling of mass transfer and properties of deep-frying batter.

The hydration properties of starch were examined in relation to mass transfer and the characteristics of deep-frying batter. With extended deep-frying, the oil content in all samples increased, while the moisture content exhibited an inverse trend. Analyses of zeta potential, disulfide bonds, secondary structure, particle size of the proteins, thermal properties, and water status indicated that prolonged deep-frying time facilitated protein aggregation and led to a decrease in both gelatinization enthalpy (ΔH) and the percentage of bound water. Additionally, deep-frying batter containing starch with medium hydration properties (carboxymethyl freeze-thawed tapioca starch), accelerated protein aggregation, delayed the dissipation of bound water, and significantly reduced both gelatinization and ΔH. This ultimately weakened the intensity of mass transfer, thereby diminishing oil distribution. The Pearson's correlation test confirmed a negative correlation between mass transfer intensity and starch hydration properties, indicating that both parameters significantly influenced the characteristics of the deep-frying batter.