Innovative Technology for Producing Antimicrobial Coagulant Formulation to Prolong the Shelf Life of Paneer

Background:

Various methods, such as the addition of coagulants, chemical additives, novel packaging, thermal processing, and low-temperature storage, have been employed by different individuals to prepare and extend the shelf life of paneer. However, these attempts to address the issue with a range of coagulants, additives, and preservatives have not gained popularity in the market, primarily due to issues like low yield, texture alteration, and manufacturers’ concerns about the use of preservatives. There was a compelling need to discover a suitable formulation that not only serves as a coagulant for milk but also enhances the shelf life of paneer. Interestingly, the untapped potential of specific LAB strains producing Phenyllactic acid (PLA) for paneer production and preservation has largely gone unexplored. This innovation presents a method for developing an Anti-Microbial Coagulant Formulation (AMCF) using the indigenous L. plantarum MTCC 25406 strain, which is incorporated into whey. Through the process of spray drying, this AMCF yields a cost-effective powder with active antimicrobial properties, including PLA, providing an appealing solution for both paneer preparation and extending its shelf life. This inventive approach holds significant promise for both the dairy industry and consumers seeking a dependable alternative to traditional methods.

Technology Details:

Our innovation precisely targets the enduring issue encountered by the paneer production industry, specifically the restricted shelf life resulting from microbial spoilage. We have developed an Antimicrobial Coagulant Formulation enriched with PLA, serving as both a coagulant and bio-preservative for paneer. This not only tackles the problem of microbial spoilage but also presents a notable advantage over the traditional coagulants commonly used in paneer production. Moreover, the use of a particular LAB strain and the incorporation of PLA as an antimicrobial agent highlight the distinctive attributes of our solution. By providing an efficient and dependable alternative to conventional techniques, this ground-breaking development holds sign.