Combined effect of xanthan gum and water content on physicochemical and textural properties of gluten-free batter and bread

Evaluation of the Effect of Improvers: Psyllium and Xanthan Gum in Bread Loaf with Partial Replacement of Quinoa Flour

Wheat flour (WF) was replaced with quinoa flour (QF) at a 20% level in combination with improvers such as psyllium (PSY) and xanthan gum (XG). The flour quality, dough rheology, baking quality, and sensory evaluation of the bread loaves were analyzed, considering the addition of improvers as follows: PSY 0.5%, XG 0.5%, and PSY 0.25% + XG 0.25%. The best treatment to produce bread loaves was with the application of PSY 0.25% + XG 0.25%, where it had an optimal acceptability and no significant texture difference (p ≥ 0.05) compared with the control, with manageable dough, ideal viscosity, intermediate width/height ratio, and moderate baking stability, reflected in reduced baking losses. The techno-functional and nutritional properties of QF offer a viable alternative to WF.

Optimization of Functional Gluten-Free Cake Formulation Using Rice Flour, Coconut Flour, and Xanthan Gum via D-Optimal Mixture Design

Prolamins in wheat, barley, and rye cause celiac disease (CD), non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), and wheat allergies (WA). Although rice can be a suitable alternative, gluten-free rice flour products are less technologically advanced. However, coconut flour and xanthan gum could enhance product quality, fiber content, and functional properties. This study employed a response surface D-optimal mixture design to investigate the impact of substituting Sadri Hashemi rice flour (RF) (15.60%-31.19%) with low-fat desiccated coconut flour (CF) (0%-15.59%) and xanthan gum (XG) (0%-0.31%) in 17 runs based on batter weight. Eleven responses were analyzed and exhibited significant and valid models (p < 0.0001), with satisfactory coefficient of determination (R 2 > 0.85) values and non-significant lack of fit (p > 0.1). Substitution at all levels significantly increased batter viscosity (R 2 = 0.990) and specific weight (R 2 = 0.995). Differences in cake crumb color (ΔE) decreased when RF was substituted with CF, while maximum ΔE elevation was observed with 0.31% XG due to synergistic effects with 5.09% CF (R 2 = 0.974). Increasing the RF/XG ratio (0% CF) resulted in decreased water activity (a w ), while increasing CF increased a w synergistically (R 2 = 0.986). Moisture and texture hardness increased significantly with RF substitution up to 7.518% CF and 0.170% XG and 8.944% CF and 0.285% XG, respectively (R 2 = 0.976 and 0.993). The volume index decreased with CF and XG (R 2 = 0.989). Sensory acceptances were reduced by increasing XG while improved with optimal CF levels, predicted at 6.415% (R 2 = 0.997), 6.784% (R 2 = 0.999), 9.001% (R 2 = 0.999), and 5.924% (R 2 = 0.999) for color, taste, texture, and overall acceptance, respectively. Two-sided prediction interval confirmation runs with 95% confidence (p ≤ 0.05) validated the models' accuracy and prediction of optimized combinations. The optimized gluten-free cake formula (23.395% RF, 7.795% CF, 0% XG) achieved an 88.0% desirability score. Developing valid regression models facilitates a comprehensive investigation of cake quality and sensory properties, ensuring a viable gluten-free product for individuals with gluten-related disorders.

Textural enhancement and glycemic potency reduction of sugarcane fiber-incorporated white bread with ascorbic acid and xanthan gum

In this study, ascorbic acid (0.02 % w/w), xanthan (0.75 % or 1.5 % w/w), and their combination have been added into sugarcane fiber (SCF) incorporated (5 % or 10 % w/w) wheat flour-based white breads. The effects of different additives on the physical characteristics, and the in-vitro and in-vivo glycemic potency of breads were evaluated. Addition of xanthan alone and the combination of additives reduced hardness and increased specific volume. SEM images showed that xanthan caused larger, more uneven holes in breadcrumbs due to xanthan's high elasticity and viscosity. FTIR spectrum indicated that the combination of SCF, xanthan, and ascorbic acid resulted in higher β-turn, lower α-helix protein structures, and lower ratios of α-helix/β-sheet, indicating a more flexible gluten structure formed. In-vitro digestibility results suggested that all SCF-incorporated breads had a lower glycemic index (GI) value than reference. Samples with 0.02 % (w/w) ascorbic acid and 1.5 % (w/w) xanthan reported the lowest in-vitro and in-vivo GI values.

The Impact of Selected Ingredients on the Predicted Glycemic Index and Technological Properties of Bread

Bread, a staple food consumed worldwide, plays a pivotal role in nutrition. Nevertheless, it is to be underlined that white bread is classified as a high glycemic index food, and its frequent consumption can lead to rapid increases in blood glucose, potentially causing metabolic stress and contributing to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. So, there is a growing interest in bread formulations with ingredients that can lower its GI. With this view, bread was formulated, substituting wheat with chickpea flour, red chicory powder, and three distinct types of resistant starch. The results showed the different resistant starches' impacts on the glycemic index reduction. Specifically, chemically modified tapioca RS IV produced a bread formulation with a low predicted glycemic index (pGI < 55). Retrograded starch from tapioca (RS III) allows the bread to reach a pGI value of 55, the upper value for classifying a food as low pGI. The retrograded starch from corn (RS III) allows a decrease in the bread's glycemic index, but the product is still classified as 'high pGI' (>70). Moreover, the addition of by-products rich in polyphenols contributes to a lowering of the pGI. Concerning the technological parameters, the outcome revealed an increase in the moisture content across all the newly formulated samples compared to the control. At the same time, the volume and specific volume showed a decrease. The newly formulated samples exhibited a higher baking loss, particularly when incorporating resistant starch, which increased the hardness and chewiness with decreased cohesiveness. In conclusion, incorporating chickpea flour, red chicory powder, and tapioca-resistant starch (RS III and IV) offers a promising strategy for producing high-fiber bread with a low glycemic index, catering to health-conscious consumers.

The effects of dextran in residual impurity on trehalose crystallization and formula in food preservation

The residual dextran impurities in the upstream process significantly impact the crystallization of starch-based functional sugar and the related food properties. This study intends to reveal the mechanism of dextran's influence on trehalose crystallization, and build a relationship among the dextran in syrup and the physicochemical and functional properties of trehalose. Instead of incorporating into the crystal lattice, dextran changes the assembly rate of trehalose molecules on crystal surface. The different sensitivity and adsorption capacity of the crystal surface to the chain length of dextran determines the growth rate of crystal surfaces, resulting in different crystal morphology. The bulk trehalose crystals, which were obtained from syrups with short chain dextran, have excellent powder properties, including best flowability (35◦), highest crystal strength (2.7 N), lowest caking rate (62.22 %), and the most uniform mixing with other sweeteners (sucrose/xylitol) in food formulations, achieving more stable starch preservation.

Effect of goji berry incorporation on the texture, physicochemical, and sensory properties of wheat bread

The regular intake of Lycium barbarum (goji berry) is supposed to play an important role in the promotion of human health. Regarding, its incorporation into staple foods, including bread, seems to be effective. However, it requires the evaluation of dough behavior and final product quality. This study investigated the effect of goji berry incorporation at levels of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30% ww-1 on the textural, physicochemical, and sensory properties of wheat bread. Results indicated a significant enhancement of water absorption and gelatinization temperature in composite flour via the inclusion of goji berry powder (p < 0.05). Using goji berry powder up to 20% ww-1 has shown to obtain the structure able to restore gases through the baking process and provide enhancement in a specific volume at about 10%. Alongside, the hardness of composite bread decreased, and the optimal hardness was observed at formulations containing 20% w/w goji berry powder with a value equal to 1199.95 ± 0.05 g, which is supposed to be induced by the higher specific volume and lower moisture content of bread samples. Moreover, color and sensory perception have been found to be significantly changed by goji berry substitution. Goji berry substitution up to 20% ww-1 is found to be preferred by the consumer, and a drop in overall acceptability was observed at its higher inclusion. The technological characteristic changes induced by goji berry incorporation are induced by its gluten dilution impact. However, the gel-like structure formed by the high fiber content of goji berries compensates for this adverse impact up to 20% w/w substitution level.

Enhancing Gluten-Free Bread Production: Impact of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Psyllium Husk Fiber, and Xanthan Gum on Dough Characteristics and Bread Quality

The demand for gluten-free products has increased due to improved diagnoses and awareness of gluten-related issues. This study investigated the effect of HPMC, psyllium, and xanthan gum in gluten-free bread formulations. Three tests were conducted, varying the amount of these ingredients: in the first formulation, the amount of HPMC was increased to 4.4 g/100 g of flour and starch; in the second, psyllium husk fiber was increased to 13.2 g/100 g of flour and starch; and in the third formulation, xanthan gum was removed. Differences were observed among the formulations: increasing HPMC reduced extrusion force without affecting bread quality; adding psyllium increased dough elasticity but also crumb gumminess and crust hardness. Eliminating xanthan gum altered dough rheology, resulting in a softer and less gummy crumb, and a less reddish color in the final bread.

Gluten-starch microstructure analysis revealed the improvement mechanism of Triticeae on broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum L.)

Understanding the mechanism by which Triticeae improves the quality of broomcorn millet (BM) is key to expanding the use of this crop to address food crises and food security. This study aimed to explore the effects of Triticeae on the disulfide bonds, secondary structures, microstructure, and rheological properties of BM dough, and to investigate the potential food applications of BM. Gluten protein, intermolecular SS, and β-Sheets content of the reconstituted doughs were significantly improved compared with BM dough, which improved disorderly accumulation of starch and gluten-starch interaction in BM dough. CLSM analysis showed that broomcorn millet-common wheat (BM-CW) and broomcorn millet-durum wheat (BM-DW) also possessed larger protein areas, smaller lacunarities, and better gluten-starch interactions in the reconstituted doughs. Disulfide bonds were positively correlated with the gluten network structure, and more disulfide bonds were formed in BM-CW (3.86 μmol/g), which promoted stronger mechanical resistance in BM-CW. Therefore, the combination of BM flour with CW and DW flours had better dough elasticity and stability. Finally, a potential evaluation and optimization scheme for BM as a cooked wheaten food is proposed to improve the reference for future food security and dietary structure adjustment of residents.

Effect of vanillin-conjugated chitosan-stabilized emulsions on dough and bread characteristics

In this study, the effect of chitosan-vanillin Schiff base emulsions (CSVAEs) on dough and bread characteristics was investigated. The results revealed that CSVAEs were embedded in the gluten and that the viscoelasticity and mechanical strength of the dough gradually increased with increasing CSVAEs concentration, α-helical and β-fold content, and elastic structure in the dough increased with the same patterns. The basic properties of bread were measured, and it was found that low concentrations of CSVAEs were effective in improving the quality of bread and slowing the staling rate. As the storage time increased, CSVAEs had less effect on the rate of moisture loss, hardness and springiness of the bread and more effect on the inhibition of the acidity of the bread. The addition of CSVAEs slowed the increase in bacteria and molds and extended the shelf life of the bread.

Mechanism of action of three different glycogen branching enzymes and their effect on bread quality

Bread staling adversely affects the quality of bread, but starch modification by enzymes can counteract this phenomenon. Glycogen branching enzymes (GBEs) used in this study were isolated from Deinococcus geothermalis (DgGBE), Escherichia coli (EcGBE), and Vibrio vulnificus (VvGBE). These enzymes were characterized and applied for starch dough modification to determine their role in improving bread quality. First, the branching patterns, activity on amylose and amylopectin, and thermostability of the GBEs were determined and compared. EcGBE and DgGBE exhibited better thermostable characteristics than VvGBE, and all GBEs exhibited preferential catalysis of amylopectin over amylose but different degrees. VvGBE and DgGBE produced a large number of short branches. Three GBEs degraded the starch granules and generated soluble polysaccharides. Moreover, the maltose was increased in the starch slurry but most significantly in the DgGBE treatment. Degradation of the starch granules by GBEs enhanced the maltose generation of internal amylases. When used in the bread-making process, DgGBE and VvGBE increased the dough and bread volume by 9 % and 17 %, respectively. The crumb firmness and retrogradation of the bread were decreased and delayed significantly more in the DgGBE bread. Consequently, this study can contribute to understanding the detailed roles of GBEs in the baking process.

Formulation of Gluten-Free Cookies Utilizing Chickpea, Carob, and Hazelnut Flours through Mixture Design

Legume flours, which offer high nutritional quality, present viable options for gluten-free bakery products. However, they may have an objectionable flavor and taste for some consumers. In this study, it was aimed to improve the gluten-free cookie formulation by incorporating carob and hazelnut flours to pre-cooked chickpea flour and to investigate the techno-functional properties of the formulated cookies. The flours used in the formulations were assessed for their chemical and physical properties. This study employed a mixture design (simplex-centroid) to obtain the proportions of the flours to be used in the cookie formulations. The rheological characteristics of the doughs and the technological attributes of the baked cookies were determined. The addition of the hazelnut and carob flours had the overall effect of reducing the rheological characteristics of the cookie doughs. Furthermore, the textural attribute of the hardness of the baked cookies decreased as the ratio of hazelnut flour in the formulations was raised. The analysed results and sensory evaluation pointed to a formulation consisting of 30% pre-cooked chickpea/30% carob/30% hazelnut flours, which exhibited improved taste and overall acceptability scores. A total of 16.82 g/100 g of rapidly digestible starch, 5.36 g/100 g of slowly digestible starch, and 8.30 g/100 g of resistant starch exist in this particular cookie. As a result, combinations of chickpea, hazelnut, and carob flours hold promise as good alternatives for gluten-free cookie ingredients and warrant further exploration in the development of similar products.

Evaluation of producing gluten-free bread by utilizing amaranth and lipase and protease enzymes

Generating high pleasant and nutritious gluten-free (GF) bread for sufferers with celiac disease (CD) is a main task for food technologists. Amaranth is a useful nutrition and gliadin-free and could be utilized in GF products. At this study, by using different substitutions of amaranth flour (0%, 15%, 25%) GF bread samples were produced, and the effects of lipase and protease enzymes as bread improver have been investigated. On this assessment, physicochemical (ash, moisture, specific volume, bread yield, color index and porosity) and rheological (springiness, chewiness, cohesiveness, hardness and staling) characteristic, microstructure and sensory feature of bread were evaluated. The consequences tested the production bread with acceptable sensory properties is feasible with the aid of applying amaranth flour in GF bread formulations. Applying 15% amaranth flour increased meaningfully bread porosity and specific volume, but texture hardness was notably decreased. 25% amaranth flour formulation lowered hardness, specific volume and porosity of bread samples. Utilizing lipase and protease enzymes in 15% amaranth flour reduced texture hardness, porosity and specific volume, while the enzymes at 25% amaranth flour heightened the mentioned bread properties. In this result, for lower amaranth flour substitution (15%), using enzymes in formulation is not necessary, however enzymes in 25% Amaranth flour substitution could promote bread texture, porosity and specific volume.

Techno-Functional and In Vitro Digestibility Properties of Gluten-Free Cookies Made from Raw, Pre-Cooked, and Germinated Chickpea Flours

Chickpea flour, which is produced in various forms, has high protein and fiber content; therefore, it can be a good ingredient for gluten-free cookies. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the properties of cookies formulated using raw (RCF), cooked (CCF), and germinated (GCF) chickpea flours. The techno-functional properties of these flours were determined, and scanning electron microscope images and mid-infrared spectra were obtained. The rheological properties of cookie doughs were measured along with their mid-infrared spectra. Baked cookies were analyzed for their technological properties as well as their in vitro digestion properties. Sensory analysis was also performed for all the cookies. The most significant difference among the flours was observed in their water retention capacity, and CCF had 119.7% higher water retention capacity compared to RCF. The dough made with CCF had quite different rheological properties from the others. The cookies baked with GCF had the highest baking loss and spread ratio. The CCF-containing cookies had the hardest structure. The cookies made from RCF had a higher resistant starch content followed by the cookies with GCF. All the cookies had similar scores in all aspects tested in the sensory analysis. The use of three different forms of chickpea flour in cookie formulations resulted in products with very different properties; however, their overall acceptability levels were close.

Effect of Thermoresponsive Xyloglucan on the Bread-Making Properties and Preservation of Gluten-Free Rice-Flour Bread

This study clarified the effect of adding thermoresponsive xyloglucan on the bread-making properties and preservation of gluten-free rice-flour bread. The thickening polysaccharides used for preparing gluten-free rice-flour bread were modified tamarind gum (MTG; thermoresponsive xyloglucan), tamarind gum (TG), and xanthan gum (XT). The mechanical properties of the added polysaccharide thickener solutions and bread dough, the mechanical properties and sensory characteristics of rice-flour bread, and the aging properties of rice-flour bread were measured. The results showed that the MTG solution exhibited solification at 40 °C and gelation below 40 °C, which affected the dynamic viscoelasticity of the dough. The addition of MTG to gluten-free rice-flour bread reduced the specific volume, increased the moisture content, and reduced the stress at 70% compression. Therefore, the bread with MTG added was soft, moist, and preferred over other those with other additives. In terms of preservation, the addition of 0.5-0.75% of polysaccharides inhibited the hardening and aging of beard with MTG added. This indicates that the addition of MTG at low concentrations is effective in preserving gluten-free rice-flour breads. We found that the thickening polysaccharides had to be added in appropriate concentrations to improve the bread-making properties and achieve the preferred effect.

Enhancing the quality of steamed oat cake by partially gelatinized starch in oat flour and its molecular mechanism

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect and mechanism of partially gelatinized starch in oat flour on the rheological characteristics of the oat batter and the quality of steamed oat cakes. The results showed that an increase in the gelatinization degree of oat flour destroyed the starch granular structure and the long-range molecular order of starch, accompanied by a decrease of crystallinity from 22.28 % to 8.72 % and the formation of a starch-lipid complex. The increased gelatinization degree of oat flour destroyed the protein network and promoted the formation of the starch gel network in oat batter. Meanwhile, the addition of gelatinized oat flour enhanced the elastic behavior of the oat batter and the gas retention ability of the fermented oat batter, while decreased the total gas volume from 1075.5 mL to 827.0 mL. The steamed oat cake containing 50 % gelatinization degree of oat flour (G50) showed moderate hardness, springiness and chewiness, as well as the largest cell area fraction (37.35 %), due to the formation of a dense starch gel-protein double network and the enhancement of long/short-range molecular order of starch. Thus, this study provided the feasibility of improving the quality of oat-based fermented products by changing the gelatinization degree of oat starch.

Proximate Compositions, Texture, and Sensory Profiles of Gluten-Free Bario Rice Bread Supplemented with Potato Starch

Current gluten-free food development trends tend to favour pigmented rice flour. Bario Merah Sederhana is a type of red-pigmented rice that is indigenous to Sarawak, Malaysia. This research investigates the nutritional, texture, and sensory properties of gluten-free rice bread produced from a composite of BMS rice flour and potato starch, producing samples referred to as F1 (100:0), F2 (90:10), F3 (80:20), and F4 (70:30). The gluten-free rice bread formulations demonstrated higher ash and crude fibre content and lower carbohydrate content than wheat bread. However, the crude protein content of the bread decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with a decreased amount of rice flour, owing to wheat flour containing greater protein. The crumb of rice bread appeared to be darker due to the red pigment of rice flour; in contrast, the crust was lighter than the control sample, possibly due to a lower Maillard reaction. Among rice bread formulations, F4 demonstrated the lowest hardness in dough and bread, as well as the highest stickiness and springiness in dough and bread, respectively. The wheat bread received the highest rating (p < 0.05) in the sensory test; nonetheless, among the rice breads, F4 was considered to be an acceptable formulation owing to its high score in colour (7.03), flavour (5.73), texture (6.03), and overall acceptability (6.18). BMS has potential in gluten-free rice breads; the formulation of 70% rice flour combined with 30% potato starch was indicated to be acceptable.

Textural characteristics and color analyses of 3D printed gluten-free pizza dough and crust

A new methodology was developed to print pizza dough with a gluten free flour blend or commercial gluten whole wheat flour using extrusion-based 3-D printing technology. Their physical properties were compared to commercially available pizza dough and crust. The optimized nozzle size, print speed, ingredient flow speed, and line thickness for the 3-D printing of pizza dough were: 0.04 cm, 800 cm/minutes, 1.8, and 0.34 cm, respectively. The printed gluten-free pizza dough required 120 min of fermentation to obtain a comparable color and textural profile (P < 0.05) to that of the gluten whole wheat flour dough fermented for 60 min. The 3-D printed gluten free, whole-wheat pizza and commercially available wheat flour dough and standard crusts demonstrated identical Δ E ab ∗ values of 0.14 and 0.13, respectively with brownness index (BI) values of 1.47 and 1.62, respectively. Textural profile analysis (TPA) of 3-D printed gluten free and whole wheat pizza dough, crust and the commercial standard wheat flour pizza dough and crust demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) correlations in terms of hardness, fracturability, adhesiveness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience. An optimized method was developed to prepare gluten-free pizza dough and crust with similar functional properties to that of gluten whole wheat flour dough and crust.

Cassava starch and chickpea flour pre-treated by microwave as a substitute for gluten-free bread additives

There is an increasing demand for gluten-free products, which are regularly made by a combination of ingredients and additives. Microwave pre-treatment of gluten-free ingredients is an alternative to food additives because it may induce changes in protein and starch functional properties. In this context, this study aimed to apply microwave treatment in cassava starch and chickpea flour, analyzing their functional and thermal properties and their ability to substitute additives in gluten-free breads, comparing them to an additive-containing bread. All formulations were analyzed regarding their physical characteristics and quality parameters. The microwave-treated ingredients showed color, thermal properties and morphology changes. The bread made with chickpea flour treated with initial moisture of 40% showed the best quality parameters when compared to the control bread. The ingredients pre-treated with microwave have shown efficiency on gluten-free bakery additives substitution, allowing the use of a clean label terminology.

Formulation of Protein-Rich Chocolate Chip Cookies Using Cricket (Acheta domesticus) Powder

In the Western world, the successful introduction of insect consumption may need awareness of insect ingredient benefits, and consumers' anticipation of insect-based foods with sensory quality is crucial. The objective of this study was to develop protein-rich nutritional chocolate chip cookies (CCC) from cricket powder (CP) and analyze their physicochemical, liking, emotions, purchase intent, and sensory properties. The CP additions levels were 0%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. Chemical composition, physicochemical, and functional properties were analyzed using individual and mixed CP and wheat flour (WF). The proximate composition of CP mainly consisted of ash (3.9%), fat (13.4%), and protein (60.7%). In vitro protein digestibility of CP was 85.7%, whereas the essential amino acid score was 0.82. The CP inclusion significantly impacted the WF functional and rheological properties in all given incorporation levels in flour blends and doughs. The incorporation of CP produced darker and softer CCC, resulting from the effect of the CP protein. Adding 5% of CP did not impact the sensory attributes. Purchase intent and liking improved by using 5% of CP after panelists had revealed the beneficial information regarding CP. Concerning emotion terms, "happy" and "satisfied" significantly decreased while the negative emotion term "disgusted" increased among the highest CP substitute levels (7.5% and 10%) after beneficial information. Overall liking, flavor linking, education, consumption intent, gender, age, and positive emotion term "happy" were significantly assertive predictors affecting purchase intent.

Design, development and characterization of interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel bead for controlled release of glipizide drug

In the current study, a novel interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel bead was developed by encapsulation of antidiabetic drug glipizide using sodium alginate (SAL) and xanthan gum (XAG) biopolymers by ionotropic gelation technique with calcium chloride as cross-linking agent. In light of the fact that IPN hydrogel beads posses greater benefits in controlling the release of such short acting drug, sodium alginate and xanthan gum IPN hydrogel beads were prepared at different mass ratios (SAL:XAG =10:0, 9:1, 8:2, 7:3, 6:4, 5:5). Similarly, drug-loaded IPN hydrogel beads were also developed. The prepared hydrogel beads were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and thermogravimetric studies to understand the type of interactions between the composite beads. Surface morphology changes were studied by scanning electron microscopy. The particle size, drug entrapment efficiency, and swelling behavior of prepared hydrogel beads were also studied. Based on In-vitro drug dissolution studies, it was observed that SXF4 preparation containing SAL and XAG polymers at 7:3 ratio showed extended drug release of 97.53% at 9 h. This study demonstrated that inclusion of XAG has extended the drug release and able to achieve zero-order drug release profile.

Development of Healthy Protein-Rich Crackers Using Tenebrio molitor Flour

Entomophagy is still a widespread practice in Africa and Asia, although it is declining due to the westernization of diets. Today, the issue of its rehabilitation is underway; indeed, the nutritional economic and ecological stakes of this consumption are strategic. It can be considered an important way to face the scarcity of natural resources, environmental pressures due to the increasing world population, and demand for protein. Tenebrio molitor larvae flour was recently approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as a novel food. The aim of the present work was to create protein-rich healthy cracker from insect flour, achieving the claim “source of protein” with a target market focused on the healthy products for consumption on the go. Contents of T. molitor flour from 2 to 20% (%w/w) were tested, using a previously optimized formulation and the comparison in terms of nutritional, physical, and sensory properties with a standard formulation was performed. T. molitor incorporation allowed an improvement in the nutritional profile of snacks, through an increase of 15% in protein content and an enrichment in minerals (namely potassium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc). The crackers containing a 6% of insect flour were the most appreciated by the panelists. The incorporation of T. molitor induced a reduction in firmness and an increase in crispness, resulting from the impact of the protein on the structure. This aspect has a positive impact with respect of the acceptance of snacks—70% of the panelists consider the possibility to buy the crackers with 6% enrichment. A darkening of the samples with the increase in the incorporation of T. molitor flour was also observed, accompanied by a reduction of about 20% of the L* values. Globally, insect protein can play an important role in redesigning food diets, making them more sustainable, with less environmental impact and equally balanced.

Improvement of Texture, Nutritional Qualities, and Consumers’ Perceptions of Sorghum-Based Sourdough Bread Made with Pediococcus pentosaceus and Weissella confusa Strains

Enriched gluten-free products are in high demand owing to increasing celiac disease worldwide. Sourdough fermentation can improve the quality of gluten-free cereals, rendering the resulting product beneficial as a functional food. This study produced sorghum bread (SB) using sourdough technology and evaluated the texture, nutrition profile, bioactive components, and sensory attributes of the product. The base formula was composed of sorghum flour and corn starch. Sourdough made with Pediococcus pentosaceus LD7 (PL7), P. pentosaceus SA8 (PS8), or Weissella confusa SD8 (WS8) was added at a 20% substitution level for bread production, while bread without sourdough addition was used as the control sample. The texture profiles of the SB were significantly (p ˂ 0.05) softer than that of the control. The sourdough breads possessed higher crude protein, ash, and dietary fibre contents than the control bread. Tannin and total phenol contents were significantly (p ˂ 0.05) higher in the sourdough breads compared to the control sample. The specific volume of the sample made with PS8 sourdough was the highest at 2.50 cm3/g compared to the other samples (2.17–2.46 cm3/g). The sourdough samples had higher scores for taste, texture, aroma, and overall acceptability than the control, with PL7 SB exhibiting the best overall acceptability (6.56). This study established promising use of sourdough with starters as an ingredient for baked products with improved technological and nutritional attributes as well as consumer acceptability.

Chestnut peels and wheat bran at different water level influence the physical properties of pan bread

In breadmaking, dietary fibres are used to improve the nutritional quality of the final products; on the other hand, they may affect the physical and sensory properties. This work aimed to the evaluate, on pan breads, the effect of substituting 3 g of wheat flour with an equivalent amount of fibre rich ingredients: chestnut peels (CP) or wheat bran (WB), in comparison to a traditional wheat bread formulation (C). The effect of four levels of added water (54, 60, 66, 71 g/100 of flour) was also tested. The fibre content of CP (33%) and WB (42%) affected their water binding capacity and, consequently, the quality of the final loaves, according to the different water addition levels. In bread crumb, water content and water activity increased proportionally to the water addition levels, being instead in the crust also affected by the presence of fibres: lower water retention capacity was observed for CP, in comparison to WB and C. The loaf volume resulted higher for C in comparison to WB and CP, in relation to the larger dimensions of the crumb pores, probably due to the interfering effect of fibres during the development of the gluten network. Crumb hardness resulted higher for C at low water addition levels, being instead higher for CP at high water addition levels. CP showed a darker and redder colour, than both WB and C bread, for the presence of the brown pigments carried by chestnut peels. PCA analysis confirmed that more water is required for both the fibre-enriched breads to show characteristics similar to the control loaves.

The Role of Hydrocolloids in Gluten-Free Bread and Pasta; Rheology, Characteristics, Staling and Glycemic Index

Hydrocolloids are important ingredients controlling the quality characteristics of the final bakery products. Hydrocolloids are frequently used in gluten-free (GF) recipes, mimicking some rheological properties of gluten, improving dough properties, delaying starch retrogradation and improving bread texture, appearance and stability. Hydrocolloids addition increases viscosity and incorporation of air into the GF dough/batter. Besides their advantages for the technological properties of the GF bread, hydrocolloids addition may impact the glycemic index (GI) of the final product, thus answering the demand of people requiring products with low GI. This review deals with the application of hydrocolloids in GF bread and pasta with a focus on their effect on dough rheology, bread hardness, specific volume, staling and GI.

Sarcocornia perennis: A Salt Substitute in Savory Snacks

Salt is the primary source of sodium in the human diet, and it is associated with hypertension and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. A growing interest in halophyte plants and food products containing this type of ingredient have been observed, to reduce the NaCl daily intake. In the present work, Sarcocornia perennis was incorporated as a food ingredient into crackers to replace the salt (NaCl) and to evaluate its impact on physical properties, water activity, nutritional composition, mineral profile, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and sensory evaluation. Concentrations of powder dried S. perennis from 1 to 10% were tested by replacing the initial salt content and adjusting the flour incorporation to the initial formulation. The incorporation of S. perennis had no relevant impact on cracker firmness, but it induced an increase in their crispness. Furthermore, the incorporation of this halophyte originated darker crackers, which was revealed by a decrease of L* and an increase of b* values. In terms of nutritional composition, the incorporation of S. perennis leads to the improvement of the snack's nutritional profile, namely in terms of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and minerals, highlighting the high content in potassium, magnesium, and phosphor. Crackers with a content of 5% of S. perennis were sensorily well accepted and this level should be considered the limit of incorporation accepted by the panelists. However, by substituting 1% NaCl for an equal amount of S. perennis, it is possible to obtain a 70% reduction in sodium content, which is an important contribution to reducing the overall salt content of the diet.

Plastic Cutlery Alternative: Case Study with Biodegradable Spoons

Plastics are mixtures of organic polymers that play a major role in environmental contamination worldwide. One way to reduce the waste arising from the use of plastics, especially disposable ones, can be to produce environmentally friendly cutlery. The aim of the work was the production of biodegradable spoons and evaluation of their texture, antioxidant activities and total polyphenols content. The spoons were made from a combination of the following ingredients: water, grape, proso millet, wheat, xanthan and palm oil in different concentrations. The samples were baked at 180 or 240 °C, some spoons were dried in a fruit dehydrator. According to the results of the analysis, a spoon prepared from a mixture of all three flours and with the addition of xanthan appears to be the most suitable replacement for plastic cutlery. This spoon showed high strength and antioxidant activity. It was confirmed that the use of grape flour has a beneficial effect on the nutritional profile of the experimentally produced biodegradable spoons.

A Systematic Review on Gluten-Free Bread Formulations Using Specific Volume as a Quality Indicator

This study aimed to perform a systematic review on gluten-free bread formulations using specific volumes as a quality indicator. In this systematic review, we identified 259 studies that met inclusion criteria. From these studies, 43 met the requirements of having gluten-free bread with a specific volume greater than or equal to 3.5 cm3/g. Other parameters such as the texture profile, color (crumb and crust), and sensory analysis examined in these studies were presented. The formulations that best compensated the lack of the gluten-network were based on the combination of rice flour, rice flour with low amylose content, maize flour, rice starch, corn starch, potato starch, starch with proteins and added with transglutaminase (TGase), and hydrocolloids like hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC). Of the 43 studies, three did not present risk of bias, and the only parameter evaluated in common in the studies was the specific volume. However, it is necessary to jointly analyze other parameters that contribute to the quality, such as texture profile, external and internal characteristics, acceptability, and useful life of the bread, especially since it is a product obtained through raw materials and unconventional ingredients.

Development of a Third Generation Snack of Rice Starch Enriched with Nopal Flour (Opuntia ficus indica)

This study aimed to obtain a third-generation snack from native rice starch (NS), rice starch modified by extrusion (MS), nopal flour (NF) and xanthan gum (XG). These raw materials were characterized by proximal analysis, pH, particle size distribution, water absorption index (WAI) and water solubility index (WSI), degree of substitution (DS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheology, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis of the response variables in the nine formulations of the snack: expansion index (EI), apparent density (AD), hardness (H), luminosity (L*) and tendency to green-red (a*), was performed through a composite central design (CCD), the selected formulations were characterized by SEM. Results showed an increase in WAI, 4.69 ± 0.04, and WSI, 12.61 ± 0.10, for MS, higher than NS values due to chemical modification. According to the color analysis the NF obtained a value of 60.73 ± 0.008 in L* and −6.51 ± 0.004 in a* with green tendency. The DS value obtained was 0.09 ± 0.005, being within the FDA’s permissible range for food use. By FTIR analysis, the acetyl group was corroborated. Finally, employing microwave cooking, snacks made from NS with concentrations of NF (5%) and XG (0%) obtained the highest EI value, 4.47, as well the low Dap and D value (0.37 g/cm³, 2.25 N, respectively), corroborated by SEM analysis.

Addition of Broad Bean Hull to Wheat Flour for the Development of High-Fiber Bread: Effects on Physical and Nutritional Properties

The seed coat (hull) of broad bean (Vicia faba) (BBH) is a significant secondary product of processing with a promising nutritional profile. Bean hull has a high fiber content (49%), yet it remains underexploited as an ingredient by the food industry. This study investigated the potential of this secondary product to partially replace wheat flour for the development of high-fiber breads. Bread formulations with a range of supplementation levels (0%, 11%, 21% and 31%) were developed and tested for their nutritional and physical properties. The proximate composition of breads revealed that at 31% replacement, the fiber content was 19.19 g/100 g bread, which was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than control breads (3.62 g/100 g bread). The physical (specific volume, density and color) and textural properties of breads were affected by the addition of bean hull. Specific volume and hardness of breads were significantly reduced at ≥21% replacement compared to the control, which may reduce acceptability of the product by some consumer groups. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that the gluten content of breads was significantly reduced with bean hull addition (62% depletion for 31% replacement). At 11%, 21% and 31% replacement, one portion (80 g of bread) contains 6.8 g, 11.6 g and 15.3 g of dietary fiber, respectively, which contributes 23%, 38% and 51% of the recommended daily fiber intake (30 g/day). In conclusion, bean hull can be a valuable source of dietary fiber in bread formulations. The study showed BBH could be used to replace up to 21% of the wheat flour without significantly impacting on bread texture and volume.

Acorn Flour as a Source of Bioactive Compounds in Gluten-Free Bread

Polyphenols are important bioactive compounds whose regular ingestion has shown different positive impacts in health. Celiac patients have nutritional deficiencies, bringing many problems to their health. Thus, it is important to develop gluten-free (GF) products, such as bread, with nutritional benefits. The acorn is the fruit of holm oak and cork oak, being an underexploited resource nowadays. Its nutritional and functional characteristics are remarkable: rich in unsaturated fatty acids and fiber, vitamin E, chlorophylls, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of acorn flour as a bioactive compounds source and natural GF ingredient for baking GF bread. Bread loaves were prepared with buckwheat, rice, acorn flour, and potato starch. Two levels of acorn flour (23% and 35% of the flour mixture) were tested. The physical, nutritional, and sensory characteristics of the bread were analysed, as well as the composition of phenolic compounds: total phenols, ortho-diphenols, and flavonoids. The phenolic profile was assessed by Reverse Phase-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detector (RP-HPLC-DAD). The antioxidant activity of the bread extracts was determined by 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), diphenyl-1-picrylhidrazyl radical (DPPH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methodologies. Acorn flour can be considered a good source of bioactive compounds and antioxidants in GF bread. Acorn flour showed good technological properties in GF baking, improving bread nutritional and sensory characteristics.

Rheological and structural properties of oleogel base on soluble complex of egg white protein and xanthan gum

Oleogels can be used to provide solid-like properties without using high levels of saturated fatty acids. In this study, the edible oleogels structure developed based on egg white protein (EWP) (5%) and xanthan gum (XG) (0%, 1%, 0.5%, and 0.75% wt/wt) complex by using aerogels system as a template for oleogel preparation. The effect of pH on the EWP-XG mixture indicated the creation of a soluble complex of EWP-XG in pH 5.5. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the interaction between EWP and XG. The amount of absorbed oil was considerably higher in EWP-XG aerogels. SEM showed a soft surface in EWP 5% aerogel, which can be the reason for its less oil absorption. The aerogel and oleogel including more XG concentration had a stronger network structure and created more elastic oleogels. The light microscopy images revealed by increasing of XG concentration, the structure of protein gel mesh became more compact and regular. The XRD patterns of the aerogels did not show any clear differences between crystallinity of the samples. Therefore, it can be concluded that the aerogels based on the structuring of EWP-XG complexes have a high potential as a three-dimensional network for the oil absorption and creating oleogel.

Agave Syrup as an Alternative to Sucrose in Muffins: Impacts on Rheological, Microstructural, Physical, and Sensorial Properties

Natural sweeteners, such as agave syrup, might be a healthy alternative to sucrose used in sweet bakery products linked to obesity. We evaluated the effect of sucrose replacement by agave syrup on rheological and microstructural properties of muffin batter and on physical and sensorial properties of the baked product. Muffins were formulated by replacing 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of sucrose by agave syrup (AS) and partially hydrolyzed agave syrup (PHAS), and by adding xanthan gum and doubled quantities of leavening agents. Rheological and microstructural properties of batter during baking were analyzed over the range of 25-100 °C. In the muffins, the structure, texture, color, and sensory acceptance were studied. The combination of agave syrup with xanthan gum and doubled quantities of leavening agents affected (p < 0.05) rheological and microstructural properties of the batters and textural properties of the low-sucrose muffins compared to the controls. The increase in agave syrup levels resulted in a darker crumb and crust. Sensory evaluation showed that AS-75 and PHAS-75 were the best alternatives to the control samples. Our results suggest a plausible substitution of up to 75% of sucrose by agave syrup in preparation of muffins, with physical and sensorial characteristics similar to those of their sucrose-containing counterparts.

Optimization of Quality Properties of Gluten-Free Bread by a Mixture Design of Xanthan, Guar, and Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Gums

The objective of this study was to investigate, by means of a D-optimal mixture design, the combined effects of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), xanthan (XG), and guar (GG) gums on physicochemical, rheological, and textural properties of gluten-free batter and bread. For each of the quality properties measured, a two-factor interaction model was fitted, and the significance of its terms was assessed by analysis of variance. Sticky batters were produced with a combination of high dose of GG (0.60%), high-intermediate dose of HPMC (3.36%), and low dose of XG (0.04%). Combinations of high XG dose (0.60%) and intermediate doses of HPMC (3.08%) and GG (0.32%) rendered GF breads of greater specific volume, while lower bread crust luminosity was obtained with combinations of high GG dose (0.60%), low XG dose (0.04%), and high-intermediate HPMC dose (3.36%). Combinations of high-intermediate HPMC dose (3.36%), high GG dose (0.60%), and low XG dose (0.04%) produced both softer crumbs and bread slices of more open visual texture. By using a desirability function that maximized specific volume while minimizing crust luminosity, crumb hardness, and mean cell density, the optimization of hydrocolloids mixture rendered a value of 0.54, for a combination of 0.24% XG, 0.60% GG, and 3.16% HPMC.

The potential use of modified quinoa protein isolates in cupcakes: physicochemical properties, structure and stability of cupcakes

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical, textural, sensory and microbiological stability of cupcakes added with different proportions of modified quinoa protein isolate.

Gluten-Free Products for Celiac Susceptible People

The gluten protein of wheat triggers an immunological reaction in some gluten-sensitive people with HLA-DQ2/8 genotypes, which leads to Celiac disease (CD) with symptomatic damage in the small intestinal villi. Glutenin and gliadin are two major components of gluten that are essentially required for developing a strong protein network for providing desired viscoelasticity of dough. Many non-gluten cereals and starches (rice, corn, sorghum, millets, and potato/pea starch) and various gluten replacers (xanthan and guar gum) have been used for retaining the physical-sensorial properties of gluten-free, cereal-based products. This paper reviews the recent advances in the formulation of cereal-based, gluten-free products by utilizing alternate flours, starches, gums, hydrocolloids, enzymes, novel ingredients, and processing techniques. The pseudo cereals amaranth, quinoa, and buckwheat, are promising in gluten-free diet formulation. Genetically-modified wheat is another promising area of research, where successful attempts have been made to silence the gliadin gene of wheat using RNAi techniques. The requirement of quantity and quality for gluten-free packaged foods is increasing consistently at a faster rate than lactose-free and diabetic-friendly foods. More research needs to be focused on cereal-based, gluten-free beverages to provide additional options for CD sufferers.