2.2. Preparation of Moringa leaves based beetroot (MLBBR)
beverage
Preparation of the Moringa leaves based beetroot is outlined in
Fig. 1. Freshly collected Moringa leaves were cleaned by washing
with potable water and the wash water was drained. The washed
leaves were made into a paste with the help of a mixi grinder using
an equal volume of water. Beetroots were purchased from the local
market, outer skin was peeled off, cut into small pieces and subjected
to grinding in a mixi and the juice obtained was separated
manually. The grinding process was repeated three times for
complete recovery of nutrients. The final juice volumewas adjusted
to twice the weight of beetroot. The Moringa paste and BRJ were
sterilized, individually, at 121 C for 15 min in a laboratory autoclave
and cooled to room temperature. Then, two parts of BRJ were
added to one part of the paste, and the contents were mixed
thoroughly. Itwas inoculated with L. plantarum and E. hirae at 1 mL/
100 mL level each and allowed for fermentation for 48 h at 37 C.
Later the juice was filtered in a laminar airflow cabinet using a
sterile muslin cloth with multiple folds or alternatively centrifuged
aseptically at 8050 g for 15 min at 4 C. The clear solution
(beverage) was stored at 4 ± 1 C until use.