Raúl Emilio Vargas Peña

Mr. Raúl Emilio Vargas Peña


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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24 April 2026 in Beverages
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
RPRaúl Emilio Vargas Peña
Raúl Emilio Vargas Peña
DDDaniel Durán-Segura
Daniel Durán-Segura
ALDO AMARO-REYESALDO AMARO-REYES
ALDO AMARO-REYES
Juan Campos GuillenJuan Campos Guillen
Juan Campos Guillen
LALUCIA ABADIA-GARCIA
LUCIA ABADIA-GARCIA
MGMonserrat Escamilla García
Monserrat Escamilla García
Pulque is a traditional Mexican beverage produced through the fermentation of agave sap (aguamiel). Its primary sensory properties are attributed to the fermentative activity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and Zymomonas mobilis. However, the overproliferation of these microorganisms results in an extremely short shelf life, which hinders its commercialization. Tomatillo accrescent calyx extract (TACE) shows potential as a food preservative due to its high physalin content. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding microencapsulated TACE on the shelf life and organoleptic properties of pulque. The extract demonstrated effective antimicrobial activity against L. mesenteroides, Z. mobilis, and S. cerevisiae, successfully delaying further fermentation. Additionally, the addition of TACE prevented an excessive increase in acidity, maintaining values suitable for consumption for up to 15 days, in accordance with regulatory standards, while the viscosity and alcohol content were not negatively affected. These findings suggest that TACE has significant potential for preserving both the microbiological and sensory quality of pulque.