Reformulated oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies: staling effects

Abstract

PurposeStaling, the progressive non‐microbial deterioration of quality, is influenced by baked product fat, sugar and moisture levels. Although 50 percent sugar replacement with an acesulfame‐K‐dextrose blend, and/or 50 percent fat replacement with dried plum puree, produces acceptable oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies within one day of baking, flavor and texture changes with continued storage are unknown. The purpose of this paper is to profile three oatmeal and chocolate chip cookie formulations.Design/methodology/approachThree oatmeal and chocolate chip cookie formulations (control, reduced‐in‐fat (50 percent) and reduced‐in‐fat and sugar (50 percent)) were profiled 1, 3, 5 and 7 days post‐bake by a trained sensory panel (n=8) using the Spectrum®‐approach on 0‐15 point linescales; three replicates were obtained. Water activity was determined on six replicates. Data were analyzed with PROC Mixed and PDIFF (p<0.05).FindingsWater activity increased with modification; increases (aW<0.60) do not support microbial growth. Day 1 flavor and texture reformulation effects mirror those previously reported. Storage effects across all formulations (p<0.05) on oatmeal and chocolate chip cookie sensory attributes are within one linescale unit. Different significant (p<0.05) formulation×storage interactions suggest staling patterns differ with cookie type. Water activity increased during storage for chocolate chip cookies only; practical significance is questionable. Panelists' comments suggesting oxidative effects for both controls by day 5 are consistent with water activity.Originality/valueConsumption of products with improved nutritional profiles can assist consumers in bringing their diets in‐line with dietary recommendations. Maximizing benefits requires continued selection of modified rather than non‐modified products. Technical issues (sensory characteristics, nutritional profile and storage convenience) do not appear to limit consumer selection of these reformulated cookies.