Formulation and evaluation of novel nutraceuticals rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, natural flavors, and steviol glycosides for improving quality of life

Abstract

For a wide range of people, including malnourished adults (12+) with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), micronutrient deficiency, underweight and overweight, pregnant and lactating women, the current study aimed to present novel nutraceuticals structured according to the Standards of Protein-Rich Concentrated Nutrient Supplementary Foods with Daily Value (DV) on the New Nutrition and Supplement Facts Labels of Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for improving quality of life (QoL). Whey protein concentrate, skim milk powder, vitamins (folic acid, B12, C), minerals (iron, zinc), natural flavors (vanilla, cinnamon, coffee, chocolate), and stevia leaves extract were mixed to provide per serving; 10 g protein (20% DV), 25% DV of elemental iron and zinc, vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin B12, with elemental calcium (25% DV) emerged from milk derivatives. The novel nutraceuticals were subjected to the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory evaluation. Results showed significant differences (P<0.05) among formulations with natural flavors added in different amounts. The serving sizes of the four formulations were different according to the difference in the amount of natural flavor while keeping the same amounts of the other ingredients. Following the chocolate-flavored formulation as the first in order of overall acceptability, were coffee, cinnamon, and vanilla-flavored formulation, according to the sensory evaluation.