Ingredient Technologies and Process Modifications for Increasing the Use of Ancient Grains in Bakery Applications

Abstract

ABSTRACT Greater consumer demand for sustainable, nutrient-dense grains has inreased research emphasis on underutilized wheat species, such as ancient grains. However, these wheat species have different physicochemical qualities, in comparison to conventional hexaploid bread wheat. Consequently, the end-product quality of baked products developed using ancient wheat species is inferior to those that use common hexaploid bread wheat. In this review, approaches that can be used to enhance the functionality of ancient grains are explored as resolving these limitations is essential for expanding the use of these underutilized grains in bakery applications. An evaluation of the current literature suggests a need to examine existing ingredient technology-related solutions and processing techniques, as well as their anticipated impacts on the functionalities of these underutilized wheat species, for development of value-added bakery products. Furthermore, the findings indicate that an in-depth understanding of the physicochemical properties of ancient grains and the impact of different functionality enhancement techniques on the chemistry of these grains is essential to successfully utilize different ingredient technologies and processing techniques. Therefore, this is an area of research that needs further investigations, especially from an underutilized grains standpoint, to fully unravel the potential of these grains in different bakery applications.