Nutritional and bioactive components of rice-chickpea based snacks as affected by severe and mild extrusion cooking.

BACKGROUND: Severe extrusion cooking (SEC) has been extensively explored for product development and has been compared with mild extrusion cooking (MEC). Different blends of chickpea-rice flour for extrusion can be used to achieve a balance between nutritive value and valued product characteristics. This study was therefore designed to optimize the severe and mild extrusion conditions for rice-chickpea flour blends to cater for increasing consumer demand for snacks with the aim of comparing the effects of severe and mild extrusion cooking (MEC) on nutritional quality. RESULTS: The results revealed a significantly (P < 0.05) higher percentage reduction in sucrose during severe extrusion (46.85%) compared to mild extrusion (7.88%). Likewise, the percentage increase in maltose, glucose, and fructose was significantly (P < 0.05) higher during SEC than during mild extrusion. Total phenolic content increased by 13.96% during mild extrusion, whereas, during severe extrusion it decreased by 15%. Total flavonoid content and total antioxidant activity decreased by 11.11% and 15.63%, respectively, during severe extrusion whereas, total flavonoid content and total antioxidant activity increased by 13.17% and 24.29%, respectively, during MEC. The loss in condensed tannin content was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (33.82%) during SEC than with MEC (12.05%). With regard to amino acids, the maximum loss was observed in methionine (53.38%) followed by lysine (40.63%) during SEC. However, the mineral content was found to increase during SEC. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that MEC is superior to SEC in terms of minimizing deleterious effects on overall nutritional value of ready-to-eat snacks. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Investigation on mild extrusion cooking for development of snacks using rice and chickpea flour blends.

A study was conducted to optimize the mild extrusion cooking conditions for development of rice and chickpea based extrudates. The independent variables i.e. extrusion parameters (Screw speed, barrel temperature), feed moisture and proportions of rice flour and chickpea flour were varied using central composite rotatable design (CCRD), and their effects on system parameter- Specific mechanical energy (SME) and product characteristics i.e., water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), bulk density (BD), expansion ratio (ER), breaking strength (BS), colour values (L*, a* and b*) and overall acceptability (OA) were studied. All the system and product responses were significantly affected by independent variables. Response surface and regression models were established to determine the responses as function of process variables. Models obtained were highly significant with high coefficient of determination (R2 ≥ 0.889). The optimum mild extrusion conditions obtained by numerical optimization for development of snacks were 102 °C barrel temperature, 281 rpm screw speed, 18.3% feed moisture and rice to chickpea flour ratio as 90:10. Storage studies confirmed that the developed snacks can be stored better in laminated pouches than in high density polyethylene (HDPE) bags for a period of 6 months under ambient conditions.

Visco-thermal and structural characterization of water chestnut flour.

In order to increase flour recovery, resistant starch content and to lower the glycemic index and glycemic load, the water chestnuts were subjected to pre-optimized conditions of pre-conditioning. The low glycemic index water chestnut flour (F1) obtained thereafter was analyzed for different functional, viscous, thermal and structural properties. F1 exhibited improved functional properties due to gelatinization of starch followed by retrogradation during pre-conditioning which confirms its feasibility for development of diverse food products in comparison to commercially available market flour (F2). Pasting properties-peak viscosity, hold viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity and set back viscosity (SBV) were found significantly (p < 0.01) higher in case of F1 than F2. Higher peak viscosity of F1 can be accorded to its higher swelling capacity than F2. Further, higher SBV of F1 suggests its susceptibility towards retrogradation and gel formation. Differential scanning calorimetry results revealed that gelatinization temperature, endothermic peak width, onset, peak and conclusion temperatures were significantly (p < 0.01) lower, whereas enthalpy of gelatinization and peak height index were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in case of F1 as compared to F2. Lower gelatinization transition temperatures of F1 could be attributed to its more water absorption ability than F2 which suggests its potential as a thickening agent in foods. ATR-FTIR studies revealed high absorbance ratio at 1047/1022 cm-1 in F1 as compared to F2 which confirmed the presence of packed double helices within the starch crystalline regions in F1 sample. Scanning electron microscopy showed the smooth, plumper and fused granules in F1 whereas disintegrated granules were observed in F2.

Development of Germinated-Brown-Rice-Based Novel Functional Beverage Enriched with γ-Aminobutyric Acid: Nutritional and Bio-Functional Characterization.

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), recognized as a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter within the brain, serves a crucial role in the aging process and in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Research has demonstrated the beneficial effects of GABA, particularly for elderly individuals. Given that elderly individuals often encounter challenges with swallowing food, beverages designed to address dysphagia represent a preferable option for this demographic. Among the different processing techniques, the germination process triggers biochemical changes, leading to an increase in certain nutrients and bioactive compounds (e.g., GABA). Therefore, we attempted to develop a novel functional beverage utilizing germinated brown rice enriched with GABA and studied its nutritional and bio-functional characterization. The optimal conditions (X1, X2, X3 and X4.) were determined: powdered sugar (40 g), chocolate powder (20 g), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (0.5 g), GBR (220 g), and water (440 mL). The results of storage studies indicated that the germinated-brown-rice-based beverage exhibited favorable nutritional attributes, including increased γ-oryzanol (52.73 ± 1.56%), total phenolic content (26.68 ± 1.56 mg GAE/100 g), niacin (5.17 ± 0.14%), and GABA (42.12 ± 0.63 mg/100 g) levels. Additionally, the beverage demonstrated notable antioxidant activity (74.23 ± 2.37 µmol TE/100 g), suggesting potential health-promoting effects. Sensory evaluation revealed satisfactory acceptability among consumers, highlighting its palatability. Overall, this study elucidates the development of a novel functional beverage utilizing germinated brown rice enriched with GABA, offering promising nutritional and bio-functional characteristics for health-conscious consumers.

Flavor profiling and gene expression studies of indigenous aromatic rice variety (Mushk Budiji) grown at different altitudes of Highland Himalayan regions.

Mushk Budiji-an indigenous aromatic rice variety is usually grown at an altitude ranging from 5000 to 7000 ft above mean sea level in Highland Himalayas. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of altitude, soil nitrogen content and climatic conditions (temperature) of the selected locations on the flavor profile of Mushk Budiji using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and electronic nose (E-nose). E-nose being rapid and non-destructive method was used to validate the results of volatile aromatic compounds obtained using GC-MS in Mushk Budiji. Around 35 aromatic compounds were identified in Mushk Budiji rice samples. Highest volatile peak area percentage (105.41%) was recorded for Mushk Budji grown at an altitude of 5216.53 ft. Highest E-nose score (2.52) was obtained at an altitude of 6299.21 ft. Over-expression of fatty acid degradation and linoleic acid metabolism genes was observed at higher altitudes, whereas lipid biosynthesis was negatively influenced by higher altitude. Fatty acid degradation and linoleic acid metabolism is responsible for the synthesis of volatile aromatic compounds in Mushk Budiji. This study will therefore be the path finder for investigating the intricate mechanism behind the role of altitude on aroma development in Mushk Budiji rice for future studies.

Walnut fruit: Impact of ethylene assisted hulling on in vitro antioxidant activity, polyphenols, PUFAs, amino acids and sensory attributes.

The effects of three different hulling methods wiz natural heaping/traditional (T1), steeping (T2), and spraying (T3), on moisture, colour, fat, free amino acids, fatty acids, antioxidant activities, flavonoids, tannins, total phenolic content, and organoleptic qualities of walnut kernels were examined in this study. The kernels extracted from walnuts subjected to T3 method recorded significantly (p ≤ 0.05) highest DPPH inhibition (68.61 %), ABTS (54.56 %inhibition) and FRAP (0.106 µM trolox/100 g); flavonoids (1993.08 mg QE/100 g), tannin content (0.312 %) and phenols (0.736 mg GAE/g) compared to T1 and T2. Walnut kernels of T3 treatment group were rated better in terms of taste (3.8), odour (3.6) and overall acceptability (3.78) Furthermore, walnut kernels obtained from T3 treatment group exhibited the highest percentage of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and sweet free amino acids. The outcome of the present study offers a fresh viewpoint regarding the hulling processes of green walnuts to meet the quality requirements of walnut kernels.

Exploring modified rice flour and supplementation approach to enhance resistant starch content: Visco thermal and structural characterization.

Supplementation of rice flour with Apple Pomace Powder (APP) and Synthetic Vinegar (SV) was investigated to reduce the glycemic potential of ready-to-eat snacks using extrusion cooking. The aim of the study was to compare the increase in resistant starch and decrease in glycemic index of modified rice flour based extrudates after supplementing the Modified rice flour with synthetic vinegar and apple pomace. The effects of independent variables-SV (3-6.5 %) and APP (2-23 %) were evaluated on resistant starch, predicted glycemic index, glycemic load, L*, a*, b*, ΔE and overall acceptability of supplemented extrudates. Design expert predicted 6 % SV and 10 % APP as desirable conditions for enhancement of resistant starch and reduction of glycemic index. Resistant Starch (RS) of supplemented extrudates increased by 88 % while as pGI and GL was decreased by 12 % and 66 % respectively as compared to un-supplemented extrudates. L* value increased from 39.11 to 46.78, a* value increased from 11.85 to 22.55, b* value increased from 10.10 to 26.22 and Δ E increased from 7.24 to 17.93 respectively in supplemented extrudates. The results suggested that apple pomace and vinegar can act in synergy to reduce the in-vitro digestibility of rice based snacks, while maintaining the sensory acceptance of the developed product. The significant (p < 0.001) decrease in the glycemic index was achieved as the supplementation level increased. The increase in RS correlates with the decrease in glycemic index and glycemic load.

Amaranth and quinoa as potential nutraceuticals: A review of anti-nutritional factors, health benefits and their applications in food, medicinal and cosmetic sectors.

Amaranth and quinoa are small-seeded grains with high nutritional and phytochemical profiles that promote numerous health benefits and offer protection against various chronic ailments including hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. They are classified as pseudocereals and possess significant nutritional benefits due to their abundance of proteins, lipids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, they exhibit an exceptional balance of essential amino acids. Despite having several health benefits, these grains have lost their popularity due to their coarse nature and are neglected in developed countries. Research and development activities are growing to explore these underutilized crops, characterizing and valorizing them for food applications. In this context, this review highlights the latest advancements in use of amaranth and quinoa as nutraceutical and functional foods, covering their bioactive substances, anti-nutritional factors, processing techniques, health benefits, and applications. This information will be valuable for planning novel research for efficient use of these neglected grains.

Impact of spray drying conditions on the reconstitution, efficiency and flow properties of spray dried apple powder-optimization, sensorial and rheological assessment.

Spray drying is a preferred choice for development of highly soluble, rapidly dispersible apple powder. However, adhesion during spray drying of syrups and juices is encountered which leads to product loss. The main solution to reduce adhesion is using drying aids. Besides, control of spray drying operating parameters (inlet air temperature and feed flow rate) also closely govern the powder yield, physical, functional and microstructural properties of spray dried fruit powder. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of inlet air temperature (IAT), carrier agent concentration (MD:GA), feed flow rate (FFR) & feed TSS (FTSS) on moisture content, hygroscopicity, dispersibility, water solubility index (WSI), bulk density (BD), porosity (Φ), flowability, lightness (L*) and radical scavenging activity (RSA). Design expert predicted IAT of 160 °C, MD and GA concentration of 14% and 6% respectively, FFR of 350 rpm & FTSS of 15oBrix as optimum condition for development of easily dispersible, highly soluble and least hygroscopic powder. The powder developed after following the optimized condition (SDAP) recorded moisture content as 2.91%, hygroscopicity as 25.29%, dispersibility as 92.50%, WSI as 94.17%, bulk density as 314.1 kg/m3, porosity as 57.19, flowability as 25.83°, L* value as 70.54 and RSA as 14.37. Among different powder reconstitution concentrations, 25% w/v concentration came out to be the best for reconstitution on the basis of sensory evaluation and rheological test. Frequency sweep test for all the reconstituted juice samples showed higher storage modulus than loss modulus for all the applied frequencies. The results of the study conferred that the developed powder could be used for commercial purpose.

Predicting the optimum harvesting dates for different exotic apple varieties grown under North Western Himalayan regions through acoustic and machine vision techniques.

Acoustic system and machine vision were used to evaluate the effects of different harvest dates on the quality and sensory attributes of exotic apple varieties of North Western Himalayan. Gala Redlum (V1) was harvested at 110 (H1), 120 (H2) and 130 (H3) Days from Full Bloom (DFFB); Red Velox (V2) and Super Chief (V3) were harvested at 130 (H1), 140 (H2) and 150 (H3) DFFB. Highest acoustic coefficient (21.13) and firmness (20.72 lbs) recorded at first harvest date (H1) decreased significantly (p ≤0.05) (19.86 to 17.90 lbs) at second harvest (H2) and (17.77 to 16.80 lbs) at third harvest date. Highest starch iodine rating (3.72); anthocyanin content (24.81 mg/100 g); total soluble solids (12.10 %); total sugars (8.75 %) were recorded at H3 in all the varieties. For Gala Redlum (V1) 130 DFFB and for Red Velox (V2) and Super Chief (V3) 150 DFFB were predicted as suitable harvesting dates for table consumption.

Effect of roasting and frying treatments on aflatoxins and capsaicinoids content and nutritional profile of green chilies (Capsicum annum L.).

This study was conducted to assess the effect of two thermal treatments, viz. roasting and pan frying (deep frying), on nutritional profile, aflatoxin, and capsaicin content in green chilies. Green chilies were subjected to roasting and frying to reduce the aflatoxin contamination, besides retaining their pungency and nutritional profile. Reversed-phase HPLC was employed to determine the levels of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in thermally treated and control samples. The proximate compositions of roasted and fried chili samples were significantly (p ≤ .05) different from raw chili (control), except ash content. Vitamin A levels decreased significantly (p ≤ .05) during roasting and were undetected in fried chili samples. Likewise, vitamin C was undetected in both roasted and fried chili samples. Significantly decreasing (p ≤ .05) trends were noticed in capsaicinoids viz. capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin contents including Scoville Heat Units (SHU) during roasting and frying. However, retention of capsaicinoids was higher in roasted chilies (730.00 ± 4.90 mg/kg) than fried samples (502.56 ± 5.10 mg/kg). The levels of all the four major aflatoxins (AFs)- AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 recorded in control were much higher than the limits prescribed by the European Union for spices. Both thermal treatments (roasting and frying) employed proved to be effective in reducing aflatoxins like AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 in chilies to below the prescribed limits, while as the level of AFB1 was reduced below the limits by only the frying method. This study therefore indicated the substantial impact of frying on aflatoxins.

Development of low glycemic index instant Phirni (pudding) mix-its visco-thermal, morphological and rheological characterization.

High amylose rice (HAR) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) are the preferred choices for enhancement of resistant starch content and lowering of glycemic index in dairy desserts. The effects of different levels of skimmed milk powder (SMP): HAR flour (45:55 to 75:25) and CMC (0.1 to 1%) were investigated on physical characteristics of dry-mix and on texture profile parameters, resistant starch (RS), predicted glycemic index (pGI), glycemic load (GL) and overall acceptability of phirni (a traditional milk pudding). Design expert predicted SMP (70): HAR (30) and CMC (0.8%) as optimum levels for reducing the pGI and maximizing the RS content and other quality characteristics in phirni. RS content of phirni (4.38%) prepared from optimized dry-mix (ODM) was higher while pGI (48.12) and GL (7.50) were lower as compared to phirni prepared from market dry-mix (MDM). The visco-thermal properties of ODM and MDM also showed significant variations. Storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G'') indicated that ODM phirni was less solid than MDM phirni. Scanning electron micrographs showed fused structures in ODM, while coarse sheet like structures were observed across the surface of MDM. Thus, ODM can be a promising substitute for the available milk desserts for diabetic patients.

Variability in waxy (Wx) allele, in-vitro starch digestibility, glycemic response and textural behaviour of popular Northern Himalayan rice varieties.

Eight commonly cultivated and consumed rice varieties of Northern Himalayan regions and a popular high amylose rice variety were characterized at Wx locus and evaluated for resistant starch (RS), in-vitro starch digestibility, predicted glycemic index (pGI), glycemic load (GL) and textural parameters. Cytosine and thymine repeats (CT)n at waxy locus (Wx) showed high association with apparent amylose content (AAC). Both pGI and GL varied substantially within the selected varieties. The pGI was relatively lower in high and intermediate amylose Indica varieties compared to low amylose Japonica ones. However, Koshikari despite being a low amylose variety showed relatively lower pGI and GL, due to its higher RS, dietary fiber, protein and fat content. It was thus presumed that in addition to AAC, RS and other grain components also affect the glycemic response. Inherent resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis was also found to be higher in firm textured and less sticky rice varieties. The genotypes-Lalat, Basmati-1509 and Koshikari, in view of their low to moderate pGI and relatively higher RS content, can be explored in future breeding programmes to develop rice varieties whose consumption will help to prevent hyper/hypo glycemic responses in Northern Himalayan regions, where daily staple diet is rice.