OBTENÇÃO E CARACTERIZAÇÃO DO CORANTE NATURAL OBTIDO A PARTIR DAS BRÁCTEAS DE Bougainvillea spectabilis

Abstract

The replacement of synthetic dyes with natural alternatives is a growing demand, driven by evidence linking artificial additives to health and environmental risks. In this context, the present study aimed to develop and characterize a natural powdered dye from Bougainvillea spectabilis bracts, evaluating its physicochemical, functional, and microbiological stability, as well as its toxicity and performance in confectionery. The bracts were subjected to oven drying (40 °C and 50 °C), grinding, and storage, and were analyzed at 1 (T1), 15 (T2), and 30 days (T3). The dye showed a slightly acidic mean pH, ranging from 5.48 ± 0.07 (T1) to 5.30 ± 0.08 (T3) during storage, and acidity values between 25.42 ± 1.03% (T1) and 20.89 ± 3.41% (T3). Total phenolic content varied from 30.68 ± 4.45 mg GAE/g (T1) to 11.18 ± 2.02 mg GAE/g (T3), while antioxidant activity (DPPH) decreased from 27.27 ± 0.98 µmol Trolox/g to 9.82 ± 6.76 µmol Trolox/g over the same period. The betalain content was 5.665 mg/g (T1), decreasing by 21.7% by T2 and 72.2% by T3. Microbiological tests revealed the absence of Salmonella spp. and E. coli, with a progressive decline in molds, yeasts, and Enterobacteriaceae during storage, although T1 showed initially high values. The Artemia salina bioassay indicated low toxicity, with an estimated LD₅₀ of 164,738.37 ppm. Considering that values below 1000 ppm are indicative of toxicity, the result reinforces the safety of the analyzed sample. In technological applications, the dye provided intense coloration and versatility in ganache and whipped cream. Therefore, it can be concluded that B. spectabilis powder shows potential as a viable alternative to artificial dyes, with satisfactory stability up to 15 days and the need for improved packaging to extend its shelf life.