Using Barley Flour to Formulate Foods to Meet Health Claims

Abstract

Barley is an ancient cereal grain with high nutritional value and very specific health benefits. It is a good source of protein, insoluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals and an excellent source of the soluble fiber β-glucan. β-Glucan has been shown to reduce cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease, and Canada, the United States, and the European Union have all approved heart-health claims for barley-containing foods. In addition to its nutritional benefits, barley has a pleasant flavor that makes it a practical choice for formulating a variety of health-promoting food products. Whole grain hulless barley flour can be used to formulate health-promoting baked products, pastas, and direct expanded snack/breakfast cereal products. Partial substitution of wheat flour with whole grain barley flour resulted in the production of high-quality products, although modifications to formulation and processing conditions were needed, including higher water absorption levels and longer mixing times. The level of barl...