Effect of pH, concentration, and temperature on the strength of cytoplasmic protein foams

The strength of foams generated from solutions of red clover cytoplasmic protein is dependent on pH, protein concentration, arid temperature. The variation of foam strength as a function of these three parameters has been studied and results indicate that the onset of foam stability occurs over very short concentration and temperature ranges. A phase diagram for these foams is proposed which defines the differences between stable and unstable states in terms of protein concentration and temperature. The results show that above 40°c only unstable foams are generated, irrespective of protein concentration. Below 40°c, stable foams can be generated provided the protein concentration is greater than a certain critical concentration for the system. A possible implication in bloat studies is suggested.