*Article* **The Impact of the Fermentation Method on the Pigment Content in Pickled Beetroot and Red Bell Pepper Juices and Freeze-Dried Powders**

**Emilia Janiszewska-Turak 1,\* , Kacper Tracz <sup>1</sup> , Patrycja Bieli ´nska <sup>1</sup> , Katarzyna Rybak <sup>1</sup> , Katarzyna Pobiega <sup>2</sup> , Małgorzata Gniewosz <sup>2</sup> , Łukasz Wo´zniak <sup>3</sup> and Anna Gramza-Michałowska 4,\***


**Abstract:** The beetroot and red bell pepper are vegetables rich in active ingredients, and their potential for health benefits are crucial. Both presented raw materials are rich in natural pigments, but are unstable and seasonal; thus, it was decided to take steps to extend their durability. Lactic fermentation has been recognized as a food preservation method, requiring minimal resources. The activities undertaken were also aimed at creating a new product with a coloring and probiotic potential. For this reason, the study aimed to evaluate the impact of the method of fermentation on the content of active compounds (pigments) in pickled juices and freeze-dried powders. The lactic acid fermentation guided in two ways. The second step of the research was to obtain powders in the freeze-drying process. For fermentation, *Levilactobacillus brevis* and *Limosilactobacillus fermentum* were used. In juices and powders, pigments, color, and dry matter were tested. In this research, no differences in fermented juice pigment contents were seen; however, the color coefficient differed in raw juices. The freeze-drying process resulted in lowering the pigment content, and increasing dry matter and good storage conditions (glass transition temperatures 48–66 ◦C). The selection of vegetable methods suggested the use of fermentation and mixing it with a marinade (higher pigments and lactic acid bacteria content). All powders were stable and can be used as a colorant source, whereas for probiotic properties, a higher number of bacteria is needed.

**Keywords:** beetroot; red bell pepper; pigments; freeze-drying; LAB; color; betalain; carotenoids
