Preparation of Inulin from Dahlia Tubers

Inulin is polysaccharide chains comprised primarily of linked fructose molecules that are bifidogenic. Inulin-type prebiotics are used as functional food ingredients in beverages, yogurts, biscuits, and spreads; they are also used as dietary supplements. The objective of this study was to increase the yield of inulin by improving the inulin extraction from dahlia tubers. Inulin was isolated from fresh and chips of dahlia tubers. The dahlia tubers was blanched, sliced and blended by adding the hot water in ratio 1:1. inulin extract was evaporated and precipitated by 95% ethanol for 24 hours in a room temperature. Inulin was separated and dried at 50 °C for 24 hours. Results showed that the best ratio of inulin extract and ethanol is 1: 2 and the highest yield of inulin powder was produced from inulin extract of 30.0% brix. Moreover, the yield of inulin which refer to fresh dahlia tubers is between 6.0 - 9.5% w/w.