Search Results (208)

This research paper evaluates the functional and nutritional properties of extruded corn snacks fortified with plant-based hemp protein (HP) and insect-derived cricket powder (CP). With a focus on sustainable protein sources due to growing environmental concerns and the need for alternative protein sources, this study aims to enhance the nutritional profile of corn snacks. The incorporation of unconventional proteins into snacks is explored to meet consumer demands for sustainable and nutritious options. Results show that HP-enriched snacks have higher mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, lower sodium content, and improved water interaction profiles. On the other hand, CP-fortified snacks exhibit higher protein content, essential amino acids, and moisture retention capabilities. Texture analysis reveals differences in hardness, cohesiveness, and springiness between HP and CP-enriched products. Moreover, color analysis indicates that HP and CP additives influence the color and appearance of the snacks, with CP enrichments leading to darker snacks. Sorption isotherm studies demonstrate varying hygroscopicity levels between HP- and CP-enriched samples, impacting their storage stability. Surface structure assessments show differences in the specific sorption surface area, suggesting unique properties attributed to each protein source. In conclusion, both hemp protein and cricket powder offer various advantages for snack fortification, providing opportunities to enhance nutritional profiles while addressing sustainability concerns. Full article

Hemp seeds (HSs) are a rich source of essential fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidant compounds, making them an attractive ingredient for the food industry. This work studies the viability of enriching corn extrudates with hemp seeds, specifically to improve their fatty acid profile and phenolic content, thereby enhancing the nutritional value of the snack. Extrudate formulations with different concentrations of HSs (up to 12.5%) were evaluated, and the physicochemical, textural, and antioxidant properties of the resulting products were analyzed. The results showed that increasing the HS concentration improved the lipid profile of the products, raising the content of unsaturated fatty acids to 75.6% in the snack fortified with 12.5% of HSs and lowering the proportion of saturated fatty acids. This may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases compared with corn extrudates. The total phenolic content of the snacks and their antioxidant capacity also increased linearly with the increase of HSs in the formulation. A reduction in specific mechanical energy during extrusion was also observed, attributed to the higher fat content, which facilitates the lubrication of the process. At the physicochemical level, the HS-enriched snacks showed improvements in texture. These snacks were softer, reducing the hardness of the corn snack while maintaining crunchiness. They were even more stable due to a lower water content. The fortification of snacks with hemp seeds provides consumers with a healthier option, while maintaining the appealing crunchy texture and visual appearance regardless of some changes in their color attributes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Complementary feeding (CF) influences future health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of fortified whole grain infant cereal (WGIC), a complementary food, among 6- to 12-month-old infants on the nutrient density of the diet in three diverse settings: Brazil, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the US. Methods: Data from the Feeding Infants and Toddler Study (FITS), a collection of dietary intake studies based on 24-h-dietary recalls, from said countries was utilized. Nutrient intakes were calculated for infant cereal (IC) consumers and non-consumers. Diet modeling was applied to IC consumers to substitute their regular fortified IC with WGIC with improved fortifications. The study estimated the average nutrient density, mean adequacy ratio (MAR), and percentage inadequacy of the diet in both IC consumers and non-consumers. Results: The analyses indicated that infants who consumed IC had higher intakes of calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron, and vitamin D in the three countries. Reduced micronutrient inadequacies were observed among IC consumers, particularly in Brazil and the U.S. Diet modeling with WGIC revealed a significantly higher density of choline, magnesium, zinc, iron, fiber, and protein, as well as reduced inadequacies. The MAR was significantly improved in the three countries. Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of fortified WGIC in increasing the nutrient density of the complementary diet. The intrinsic nutrients in whole grain infant cereals (WGICs) significantly enhance the nutrient density of the complementary diet. Given that whole grains play a role in preventing childhood obesity, their inclusion during CF may be crucial. Full article

Legumes consumption is still low in Western countries, and their incorporation into bakery products could be a solution. However, a minimally processed legume-based product is still a challenge because of its negative impact on acceptance by consumers. Here, an oven-baked chip recipe, based on lentil flour, was fortified with 5% hazelnut skin (HS), a byproduct of hazelnut industrial processing, to improve the nutritional, antioxidant, and sensory features of this innovative food. Indeed, HS addition allows a nutritional profile improvement, increasing the fibers from 11.71% to 15.63%, and maintaining a high protein content (24.03 g/100 g). Furthermore, HS fortification increased total phenolic compounds and total antioxidant capacity by 1.6- and 2-fold, respectively, compared to the control. Finally, HS significantly improved the overall judgment score by 1.2 points (from 5.6 to 6.8 in control and experimental chips, respectively) halving the pulse-like aroma from 8.6 to 4.3 due to the strong decrease in the dodecane compound and due to HS volatile composition, rich in hexanal. Therefore, HS could be a valuable ingredient in improving the nutritional and functional features of bakery products as well as the sensory profiles of less palatable but healthy legume-based foods. Full article

This study investigated the potential of hempseed protein isolate (HPI) as a protein fortifier and wheat flour substitute in vegan muffins. HPI was incorporated at 0% (CON), 10% (HP10), 20% (HP20), and 30% (HP30) substitution levels, and muffins were evaluated for physicochemical, functional, and sensory properties. Protein content significantly increased from 9.61% (CON) to 19.40% (HP30), while baking loss decreased from 21.33% to 19.77%, reflecting HPI’s superior water-holding capacity. Texture analysis showed hardness decreased from 179.72 g/cm² (CON) to 137.73 g/cm² (HP30), resulting in softer muffins with higher chewiness. This correlated with a more aerated crumb structure and smoother surface at higher HPI levels, indicating improved structural integrity. Rheological analysis revealed increased batter viscosity and shear-thinning behavior with HPI fortification. FTIR analysis exhibited redshifts in the Amide I and Amide II bands, suggesting enhanced protein–protein interactions and hydrogen bonding in fortified HPI muffins. Antioxidant activity increased significantly, with ABTS radical scavenging values rising from 32.66% (CON) to 46.28% (HP30), attributed to the bioactive peptides and phenolic compounds (144.67 mg GAE/g) in HPI. However, in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) decreased from 66.08% to 42.63% due to protein–starch–lipid interactions inhibiting hydrolysis. Sensory evaluation showed no significant differences in aroma, taste, mouthfeel, or overall acceptability, with scores between 4.83 and 5.33 among all samples. These results demonstrate that HPI incorporation of up to 30% significantly enhances the nutritional profile, antioxidant activity, and textural properties of vegan muffins while maintaining overall sensory quality, supporting HPI’s potential as a sustainable protein fortifier in plant-based bakery products. Full article

The demographic shift towards an aged population calls for targeted nutrition strategies to support healthy aging and bridge the gap between life expectancy and a healthy life span. Older adults face various nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein, vitamins (B12, D), minerals (calcium, iron), and dietary fiber. This work delves into the EAT4AGE project efforts that strategically aimed to develop age-oriented food products (European Joint Programming Initiative “A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life” JPI HDHL). Currently, manufacturing of age-tailored food products presents significant complexities, from challenges of commercialization to the generation of acceptable and palatable food choices. As a first step, a literature-based comprehensive checklist has been developed to facilitate product development. This tool provides an integrated approach, ensuring that all critical aspects of product development are addressed systematically. Secondly, we describe the application of the tool in the development of a series of products, such as plant-based protein-rich cereals, reformulated dairy products, processed meat, and enriched spreads; all combining high nutritional values with adaptations to the physiological and sensory needs of seniors. Overall, this work offers insight into the current needs of seniors and a tool for product development that can be utilized for prospective product development, such as the ones detailed herein. Thus, the EAT4AGE hopes to set an example that will stimulate the fabrication of effective, well-received nutritional solutions, ultimately improving health outcomes for older adults. Full article

Protein-enriched yogurts have become increasingly popular among consumers seeking to boost their daily protein intake. The incorporation of milk proteins and protein preparations in yogurt production not only enhances nutritional value but also improves texture, viscosity, and overall sensory properties—key factors that influence consumer acceptance. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of casein and whey protein preparations on the physicochemical properties, viability of lactic acid bacteria, and sensory attributes of yogurts. Yogurts were enriched with 2% (w/w) protein preparations, including micellar casein preparation (CN85), whey protein isolate (WPI), whey protein concentrate (WPC60), and protein preparations obtained from skim milk by membrane filtration: micellar casein concentrate (CN75) and serum protein concentrate (SPC). The yogurts were produced using the thermostatic method, and their chemical composition, rheological properties, syneresis, firmness, lactic acid bacteria population, and sensory attributes were evaluated. The effects of high-protein preparations derived from skim milk through laboratory-scale membrane filtration processes (SPC, CN75) were compared with those of commercially available protein preparations (SMP, CN85, WPI, and WPC). Obtained results demonstrated that the membrane filtration-derived preparations (SPC and CN75) exhibited advantageous physicochemical properties and supported robust viability of yogurt and probiotic bacteria. However, their sensory quality was marginally inferior compared to the commercial preparations (SMP, CN85, WPI, and WPC). These findings indicate the potential applicability of membrane filtration-derived protein preparations in yogurt production while underscoring the necessity for further investigation to enhance and optimize their sensory characteristics. Full article

Background: This work focused on the study of the indirect fortification of Mexican tortillas made from nixtamalized masa (NM) with nixtamalized commercial corn flour (NCC-F) fortified with Zn, Fe, vitamins and folic acid. Methods: The chemical proximate values (CPV), ash content, mineral composition by inductively coupled plasma, in vitro protein digestibility (PD), protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS), the total starch content, the resistant starch (RS) content in nixtamalized corn tortillas (NC-T) and nixtamalized commercial corn flour tortillas (NCCF-T) and the contribution of tortillas prepared with a mixture of NM and NCC-F (75:25 and 50:50, NM:NCC-F) to the recommended dietary intake (RDI) of minerals and vitamins were determined. Results: No significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in CPV and RS content between NCCF-T and NC-T. Ca content was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in NC-T than in NCCF-T, while Fe, K, Zn, folic acid contents, PD and PDCAAS content was higher in NCCF-T compared to NC-T (p < 0.05). The tortillas made with a mixture of NM and NCC-F (50:50) provide 43.07% of the RDI of Ca for Mexican children and adults, while ~45% and >100% of the RDI of Mg for adults and children, respectively, are provided by these tortillas. Similarly, tortillas from the NM:NCC-F mixture (50:50) provide average values of 45, 71 and ~91% of the RDI of Fe, Zn and folic acid, respectively, for all age groups of the Mexican population. Conclusions: NCCF-T contribute significantly to the recommended daily intake (RDI) of micronutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium and folic acid, while tortillas made from the traditional nixtamalized corn of the Mexican diet have a higher calcium content. Tortillas made from a mixture of NCC-F and traditional NM may be an effective way to address micronutrient deficiencies in the Mexican population. Full article

Background: Foods with protein claims (PCs) targeted at the general population are increasingly sought after by consumers because they think they are healthy. However, they may contain other nutrients that pose a health risk. Objectives: Therefore, the aim of this work was to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of foods with PC and compare them with those without these claims. Methods: The Spanish Food Database, BADALI, was used for this purpose. We studied 4325 processed foods of 12 different types. Thirteen percent had PCs and more than half of them were fortified with proteins (60.4%). Plant proteins were added more frequently than animal proteins. Protein values were higher in foods with PCs, particularly in those that were fortified. Differences in other nutrients were also observed depending on the food type. The healthiness of foods was assessed using the Pan American Health Organization Nutrient Profile Model and 90.8% of those bearing PCs were classified as “less healthy”. More than 50% were high in fat or high in sodium; around one in four were high in free sugar or saturated fat and one in five had sweeteners. Foods with PCs had 13.1% more “less healthy” items than those without PCs. The proportion of items high in fat or high in sodium were also larger and more of them had sweeteners. In contrast, the proportion of foods high in free sugar and high in saturated fat was lower among those with PCs. Conclusions: Therefore, the perception that foods with PCs are healthy is incorrect, and consuming them may pose an additional health risk. Full article

The widespread popularity of pasta has driven innovations in formulations and production technologies to enhance its versatility. Techniques such as alternative drying methods and fortification of wheat pasta seek to improve the nutritional value and functional properties of pasta products, thereby increasing their attractiveness to consumers. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave–vacuum drying versus conventional drying on the characteristics of durum wheat semolina pasta, including moisture content, water activity, microstructure, colour, texture, weight gain factor, and cooking loss. Three types of pea protein concentrates (80, 84, and 88% dry matter) were used at levels of 3, 6, and 9% (g/100 g flour). Results indicated that microwave–vacuum drying had a significant impact on the physical properties and cooking quality of pasta. Microwave–vacuum drying caused material puffing, resulting in microstructure with high open porosity (64.1%) and minimal closed porosity (0.1%). This has likely contributed to the short rehydration time (2 min in boiling water) of produced pasta, effectively transforming it into an instant food product. All pasta samples had low water content (<9%) and water activity (<0.4), which ensure food safety. The microwave–vacuum-dried pasta weight gain factor (2.2) was lower than in the conventionally dried pasta (2.8). The firmness of microwave–vacuum-dried pasta was significantly higher (135 g) than that of conventional pasta (16 g). Fortification with pea protein enhanced porosity but did not affect pasta’s culinary parameters, such as weight gain or cooking loss, although it resulted in darker pasta (p = 0.001), especially notable with a 9% pea protein addition. Full article

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.) has gained attention as a sustainable protein source due to its rich bioactive compound profile and medicinal properties, but research on optimizing its protein extraction remains limited. This research explores various cell disruption methods, including pulsed electric fields and high-pressure homogenization, combined with extraction techniques like isoelectric precipitation, ultrafiltration, and salting-out, to enhance protein yield and assess its impact on chlorophyll content. The findings indicate that high-pressure homogenization combined with isoelectric precipitation achieved the highest protein yield of 11.60%, while pulsed electric fields with ultrafiltration significantly reduced chlorophyll content from 4781.41 µg/g in raw leaves to 15.07 µg/g in the processed sample. Additionally, the findings suggest that innovative extraction technologies can improve the efficiency and sustainability of protein isolation from stinging nettle, offering a valuable addition to the repertoire of alternative protein sources. These advancements could pave the way for broader applications of stinging nettle in food fortification and functional ingredient development. Full article

Sinapine is a natural polyphenol from the cruciferous plant family that has anti-aging effects but is low in bioavailability. To improve the bioavailability and therapeutic effect of sinapine, sinapine-crosslinked dual-protein-based hydrogels were prepared using soy protein isolate as a cross-linking agent. The preparation conditions were optimized by single-factor experiments, and the optimal ratios were obtained as follows: the concentration of sinapine was 300 μg/mL; the water–oil ratio was 1:3. The encapsulation rate was greater than 95%, and the drug loading capacity was 3.5 mg/g. In vitro, digestion experiments showed that the dual-protein-based hydrogels as a drug carrier stabilized the release of sinapine and improved the bioavailability of sinapine by 19.3%. The IC50 of DPPH antioxidants was 25 μg/mL as determined by in vitro digestion, and the antioxidant capacity of ABTS was about 20% higher than that of glutaraldehyde control. This is due to the addition of sinapine to enhance the antioxidant properties of the system. It can be seen that the developed hydrogels have potential applications in related fields, such as food nutrition fortification and drug delivery. Full article

This study aimed to fortify cookies to be functional food by adding Clitoria ternatea flower (CT) at concentrations ranging from 0 to 8%. Sensory profiling identified 6% CT as optimal for organoleptic attributes. The addition of CT did not significantly impact protein, lipid, and ash content but decreased energy value and increased insoluble and soluble fibre levels. The inclusion of 6% CT had a significant effect on the overall total phenolic content (TPC), which increased compared to the control sample. Antioxidative activity analyses showed enhanced antioxidative activity in ABTS, DPPH, ORACFL, and PCL assays. The addition of 6% CT inhibited hydroperoxide production in cookies. However, over a period of 6 weeks, a significant rise in peroxide value was observed during the 4th and 6th weeks of storing fortified cookies. All assessed products met the high microbiological quality standards. The sensory evaluation scores showed that CT can create cookies with health benefits and a good overall acceptance score. The texture of the cookies gradually became softer, but no significant changes in visual appearance were observed. CT can be extensively used in baked cookies as a rich source of polyphenols with strong antioxidant properties and high fibre content, as well as a fortification source for the development of functional foods. Full article

In this study, in order to verify the effects due to the addition of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in a food product, a wildflower honey was analyzed in terms of chemical composition, physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity before and after the addition of the spirulina. HS-SPME/GC–MS and HPLC/UV were applied to carry out the chemical analyses. The obtained results demonstrated that the volatile profile and also the sugar content were significantly influenced by the addition of spirulina, showing significant qualitative and quantitative differences compared to honey without spirulina. The increase in HMF in honey added with spirulina was significant, demonstrating that its presence could accelerate the Maillard reaction. Electrical conductivity measured by using a conductometer was also increased while the moisture content was reduced in honey enriched with spirulina. Instead, the pH value was similar between the two samples. On the other hand, honey fortification with spirulina determined a significant increase of 12.5% in the total phenolic content (TPC), and a 56.25% increase in protein content. Further, the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was also evaluated and a significant increase was determined as a result of the addition of spirulina. In conclusion, honey enriched with A. platensis was found to be characterized by a high pool of bioactive metabolites as well as significant changes in almost all the measurements performed. Full article

More consumers are replacing cow’s milk (CM) with plant-based drinks (PBD), but data indicating the nutritional impact are limited. This theoretical study aims to assess the effect of substituting CM with PBD sold in Italy on nutrient intake within two dietary patterns: one aligned with the EAT-Lancet Commission reference diet adapted to Italian food habits (EAT-IT) and another one in line with the Italian Dietary Guidelines (IDG). Nutrition information from 368 PBD were collected and categorized according to their descriptive name and their fortification or not with calcium (Ca- and nCa-fortified). The substitution of CM with each PBD category in both dietary patterns was conducted, and an analysis of nutrient content and adequacy was performed. Substituting CM with all PBD resulted in reduced protein intake, except for nCa-fortified soy drinks, decreased saturated fat and vitamins B2 and B12, and increased fiber intake. Replacing CM with nCa-fortified PBD within both diets decreased Ca intake. Following the substitution of CM with Ca-fortified PBD, variations in vitamin D intake depended on the PBD category. The main risk of nutritional inadequacy was observed in Ca and vitamin D levels, which may even be amplified considering the different bioavailability based on the source of nutrients. This study highlighted the important role of CM in meeting calcium requirements and the potential unintended consequences of substituting CM with PBD without considering their nutritional differences. Full article