Microscopic structure of bayberry (Myrica Rubra Sieb. et Zucc.) Juice Haze

Abstract

The microstructure of bayberry juice hazes after storage at 25°C for 6 months was examined by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Haze particles were found spherical and elliptical surrounded by translucent membranes. The transmission electron microscopic study indicated that the particles had three substructures: stain impenetrable central core, stain penetrable middle part, and floccule-like outer space structure. The core and the middle part of the haze were assumed to be the polyphenols or polyphenol/protein complexes, and the outer space was mainly the protein component. These particles were found to be aggregated to form dentrite or leaf-like structures supposedly due to hydrophobic and covalent links.