Nutritional and technological assessment of durum wheat-faba bean enriched flours, and sensory quality of developed composite bread.

Abstract

Faba beans are acknowledged as a good source of proteins, minerals, fibers, vitamins and antioxidants. A blending study was undertaken in order to prepare naturally bread from enriched flours with added nutritional value, mainly in terms of Iron and proteins. Enriched flours were prepared with varied levels (25, 30, 35 and 40%) of whole faba bean flour to assess the effects of this substitution on their nutritional and technological properties. Then, whole durum wheat bread (regular) and enriched bread at 40% substitution level (composite bread) were prepared and subjected to sensory evaluation. The substitution level of composite bread was selected on the basis of Iron and proteins contents and technological results of the flour blends. Nutritionally, except for moisture, fibers, fat, zinc and sodium values, significant (p < 0.05) increases were showed in ash, proteins, minerals, total phenolic compounds, condensed tannins, total flavonoids and anti-radical activity values. Technologically, significant (p < 0.05) decreases were recorded for lightness and whiteness index. The gluten strength value revealed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease as whole faba bean flour was added. On the sensory level, the level of substitution (40%) chosen for the manufacture of composite bread resulted in acceptable bread by consumers. Moreover, composite bread was most preferred in aroma as it imparts a feeling of satiety. The observed nutritional improvements could be useful for malnourished people, including those having Iron and proteins deficiencies. Technologically, the observed changes didn’t present limitations since composite bread was accepted by consumers even at 40% substitution level. Besides, the slight preference of composite bread aroma might encourage its consumption by consumers. Also, its promotion of satiety is important for gluten sensitivity sufferers. Our results suggested that 40% is the appropriate ratio to increase, at the same time, Iron and proteins contents of enriched flours as well as their overall nutritional quality. Also it was possible to produce natural composite bread at this level (40%) while maintaining adequate technological and sensory quality.