Development of Water Chestnut–Based Electrolyte Sports Drinks: Optimization of Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Product Quality Evaluation

Abstract

Introduction: Water chestnut (Trapa bispinosa) is an underutilized aquatic crop rich in starch and essential minerals, with potential for sports beverage development. Conventional carbohydrate sources in electrolyte drinks are often imported and highly processed. Enzymatic hydrolysis enables efficient starch conversion into readily absorbable sugars while maintaining nutritional quality, supporting the development of a functional, locally sourced carbohydrate–electrolyte sports drink.

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a water chestnut–based carbohydrate–electrolyte sports drink (WC-CESD) by optimizing enzymatic hydrolysis and evaluating product quality.

Methods: Fresh water chestnut extract was prepared and hydrolyzed using α-amylase and amyloglucosidase under varying temperatures and reaction times to determine optimal conditions for sugar release. Hydrolysis efficiency was assessed through total soluble solids (TSS), total sugar content, and reducing sugar levels.

Results: Condition 3 (37°C, 180 min) produced the highest reducing sugar content (1.13 ± 0.00 mg/100 mL), indicating effective starch conversion. Subsequently, three WC-CESD formulations—hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic—were developed and analyzed for physicochemical properties, nutritional composition, and sensory acceptability. The isotonic formulation demonstrated balanced carbohydrate content (6.07 g/100 mL), high potassium (137.50 mg/mL) and sodium (777.32 mg/mL) concentrations, and suitable energy (91.05 kcal/100 mL). FTIR spectroscopy confirmed glucose as the primary sugar, reflecting successful enzymatic hydrolysis. Sensory evaluation revealed the isotonic WC-CESD achieved superior color and overall acceptability.

Conclusions: These results suggest that optimized hydrolysis combined with proper formulation produces a glucose-rich, nutritionally balanced, and consumer-preferred WC-CESD, suitable for hydration, energy replenishment, and enhanced athletic performance.