Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products

A special issue of Processes (ISSN 2227-9717). This special issue belongs to the section "Food Process Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 June 2022) | Viewed by 25847

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Agro-processing and Postharvest Unit, Agricultural Research Council – Tropical and Subtropical Crops, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa
Interests: agro-processing; postharvest technology of fruits and vegetables, cereals, root and tuber crops; carbohydrate polymers; plant bioactives; antioxidants in food; metabolic profiling

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Guest Editor
1. Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou 0950, Limpopo Province, South Africa
2. Postharvest- Handling Group, ISEKI-Food Association, Vienna, Austria
Interests: cereal science; cereal chemistry; fermentation technology; fruit processing; cereal nutrition and metabolomics; food product development and preservation; food machinery; food security; antimicrobial resistance

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Processing of harvested plant produce into flour has increased, over the years, the utilization of flour into shelf-stable products with desirable properties, enhanced shelf life and consumer appeal. Harvested crops such as fruits, grains, legumes, roots and tubers have undergone different forms of processing leading to the production of flour needed for valorization and other food uses. Variations, however, occur in flour processing techniques, as different processing techniques are used for different plant flours depending on their end-use. The outcome of the different processing methods includes associated changes and impacts on the size, structure and composition of the flour leading to differences in the nutritional configuration and functionalities. These changes confer different effects on flour characteristics of particle size, texture, color, structure and form as well as the overall flour end product.

This Special Issue on “Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products” examines the various forms of processing methods in the production of flour from different plant sources, their effect on the nutritional composition, antioxidant activities, bioactive compounds, functionality and application in foods, as well as the novel methods currently utilized in flour processing. Sensory studies and industrial application of processed flour products are other contributions that are welcomed in this Special Issue. Submissions on novel and green methods of flour processing, as well as the current methods for determining their functionalities and properties, are also welcomed. Topics include but are not limited to:

  • Processing and properties of cereal flours;
  • Processing and properties of fruit flours;
  • Processing and properties of root and tuber crop flour;
  • Processing effects on the nutritional and techno-functional properties of flours;
  • Processing effects on flour bioactives;
  • Antioxidant activities of processed flour;
  • Fermentation processes and its effects on flour;
  • Flour extrusion processes;
  • Novel and green flour processing techniques;
  • Sensory studies on processed flour products.

Dr. Tonna A. Anyasi
Prof. Dr. Afam I. O. Jideani
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • flour particle size
  • flour techno-functional properties
  • rheological properties
  • flour bioactives
  • antioxidant activities of flour
  • novel flour processing
  • fermentation processes
  • nixtamalization
  • milling
  • sensory analysis

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Editorial

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3 pages, 166 KiB  
Editorial
Special Issue: Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products
by Tonna Ashim Anyasi and Afam Israel Obiefuna Jideani
Processes 2022, 10(11), 2450; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10112450 - 18 Nov 2022
Viewed by 2578
Abstract
The development of flour from established native sources to alternative and sustainable sources is increasing as demands for flour products rise due to recent global conflicts [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)

Research

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16 pages, 3697 KiB  
Article
Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc Starch-Soluble Dietary Fibre Potential Nanocomposite: Thermal Behaviour, Morphology and Crystallinity
by Yvonne Maphosa, Victoria Adaora Jideani and Daniel Imwansi Ikhu-Omoregbe
Processes 2022, 10(2), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10020299 - 2 Feb 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2510
Abstract
Bambara groundnut (BGN) starch-soluble dietary fibre nanocomposite (STASOL) was manufactured by grafting 1.95 g BGN soluble dietary fibre (BGN-SDF) onto 15 g BGN starch (BGNS). The particle sizes, functional groups, crystallinity, morphology and thermal properties of BGNS, BGN-SDF and STASOL were studied using [...] Read more.
Bambara groundnut (BGN) starch-soluble dietary fibre nanocomposite (STASOL) was manufactured by grafting 1.95 g BGN soluble dietary fibre (BGN-SDF) onto 15 g BGN starch (BGNS). The particle sizes, functional groups, crystallinity, morphology and thermal properties of BGNS, BGN-SDF and STASOL were studied using a Zetasizer, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. STASOL had a particle size and conductivity of 74.01 nm and −57.3 mV, respectively. BGN-SDF and STASOL were amorphous and BGNS was classified as type C starch, typical of legumes. The biopolymers had functional groups in the regions 2900–3600, 1600–1642, 900–1200 and 800–1300 cm−1, which could be attributed to the vibrational stretching of OH groups, vibration of OH groups in the non-crystalline region of starch, vibration of C-O, C-C and C-H-O bonds and the vibration of C-O and C-C bonds, respectively. BGNS had smooth, oval structures while BGN-SDF and STASOL exhibited irregular, polygonal morphologies. STASOL was the most thermally stable biopolymer, disintegrating at 293 °C, therefore suggesting that it would find use in high-temperature food applications such as baking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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14 pages, 7733 KiB  
Article
Effects of Some Weak Acids and Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Powder on the Colour of Dried Apple
by Washiela Arendse and Victoria Jideani
Processes 2022, 10(2), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10020206 - 21 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2705
Abstract
This study aimed to find alternatives to sulphite as a preservative for dried fruits. Granny Smith apples were sanitised in a 200 ppm sodium chlorite solution, de-cored, peeled, and cut into slices. The sliced apples were pre-treated/dipped in a water solution containing the [...] Read more.
This study aimed to find alternatives to sulphite as a preservative for dried fruits. Granny Smith apples were sanitised in a 200 ppm sodium chlorite solution, de-cored, peeled, and cut into slices. The sliced apples were pre-treated/dipped in a water solution containing the three weak acids, namely, ascorbic acid (AA), citric acid (CA), and potassium sorbate (PS) as well as Moringa oleifera leaf extract powder (MOLEP). A screening fractional factorial experiment consisting of five independent variables (AA, CA and PS, time and temperature and MOLEP) constrained at their upper and lower levels (AA: 0.5 to 2.0%, CA: 0.3 to 2.0%, MOLEP: 0.1 to 0.2%, time: 7 to 15 h and temperature: 57 to 70 °C) were evaluated for their effect on the colour of the dried sliced apples. An increase in the concentration of the CA significantly increased the lightness (p = 0.05) and decreased the redness (p = 0.0022) of the dried apple slices. AA and PS did not impact the lightness of the dried sliced apples. A dipping solution of citric acid at 2.0%, Moringa oleifera leaf extract powder at 0.1%, and drying time of 7 h at 70 °C effectively minimized the discolouration of the dried sliced apples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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15 pages, 2243 KiB  
Article
Functional Properties and Amino Acid Profile of Bambara Groundnut and Moringa oleifera Leaf Protein Complex
by Olawumi Oluwakemi Adewumi, Joseline Veronica Felix-Minnaar and Victoria A. Jideani
Processes 2022, 10(2), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10020205 - 21 Jan 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4305
Abstract
Combinations of indigenous ingredients lacking in certain essential amino acids could be used to obtain a protein isolate with a better amino acid profile that can be used as a functional food ingredient and suitable raw material for the food industry. Functional properties [...] Read more.
Combinations of indigenous ingredients lacking in certain essential amino acids could be used to obtain a protein isolate with a better amino acid profile that can be used as a functional food ingredient and suitable raw material for the food industry. Functional properties and amino acid profile of Bambara groundnut and Moringa oleifera leaf protein complex and its precursors (Bambara groundnut protein isolates (BGNPI) and Moringa oleifera leaf protein isolate (MOLPI)) were evaluated. The protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate, and moisture content of the protein isolates and complex ranged from 39.42 to 63.51%, 2.19 to 11.52%, 1.60 to 7.09%, 24.07 to 51.29%, and 2.61 to 9.57%, respectively, and differed significantly (p < 0.05) from one another. The total amino acids of the protein isolates and complex were 75.11, 50.00, and 71.83 g/100 g, respectively. The protein complex is higher in threonine, phenylalanine, lysine, and leucine when compared to the FAO/WHO reference pattern. The oil absorption capacity was between 0.89 and 2.26 g/g and the water absorption capacity was between 1.22 and 1.5 g/g. Herein, the water absorption capacity and swelling capacity increased with temperature with foaming capacity dependent on pH. The minimum solubility was at around pH 2–4 and 4–5. The protein isolates and complex can be used as a functional food ingredient in value-added products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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20 pages, 3656 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Novel Solid Dispersions of Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder Using Thermo-Analytical Techniques
by Nontsikelelo Noxolo Tafu and Victoria A. Jideani
Processes 2021, 9(12), 2230; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9122230 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3624
Abstract
Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) has been identified as the most important functional ingredient owing to its rich nutritional profile and healthy effects. The solubility and functional properties of this ingredient can be enhanced through solid dispersion technology. This study aimed to investigate [...] Read more.
Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) has been identified as the most important functional ingredient owing to its rich nutritional profile and healthy effects. The solubility and functional properties of this ingredient can be enhanced through solid dispersion technology. This study aimed to investigate the effects of polyethylene glycols (PEGs) 4000 and 6000 as hydrophilic carriers and solid dispersion techniques (freeze-drying, melting, solvent evaporation, and microwave irradiation) on the crystallinity and thermal stability of solid-dispersed Moringa oleifera leaf powders (SDMOLPs). SDMOLPs were dully characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The PXRD results revealed that the solid dispersions were partially amorphous with strong diffraction peaks at 2θ values of 19° and 23°. The calorimetric and thermogravimetric curves showed that PEGs conferred greater stability on the dispersions. The FTIR studyrevealed the existence of strong intermolecular hydrogen bond interactions between MOLP and PEG functional groups. MOLP solid dispersions may be useful in functional foods and beverages and nutraceutical formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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19 pages, 1913 KiB  
Article
Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Pediococcus pentosaceus Non-Alcoholic Pearl Millet Beverage Enriched with Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder: Nutritional and Sensory Characteristics
by Victoria A. Jideani, Mmaphuti A. Ratau and Vincent I. Okudoh
Processes 2021, 9(12), 2125; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9122125 - 25 Nov 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2725
Abstract
Non-alcoholic cereal beverages (NACB) are usually produced through uncontrolled fermentation driven by a cocktail of bacteria resulting in final product variability. Hence, to commercialise fermented traditional cereal beverages bioburden microbial cultures are required. This investigation aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory [...] Read more.
Non-alcoholic cereal beverages (NACB) are usually produced through uncontrolled fermentation driven by a cocktail of bacteria resulting in final product variability. Hence, to commercialise fermented traditional cereal beverages bioburden microbial cultures are required. This investigation aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory characteristics of NACB produced using pure cultures of Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Pediococcus pentosaceus. Pearl millet extract (PME) pasteurised at 85 °C for 15 min and cooled to 40 °C was inoculated with Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Pediococcus pentosaceus at 0.050% and 0.025% (1:0.5), respectively, and fermented at 37 °C for 18 h, referred to as plain non-alcoholic pearl millet beverage (PNAPMB). Moringa supplemented non-alcoholic pearl millet beverage (MSNAPMB) was produced following the same method as PNAPMB but a 4% moringa leaf extract powder was added before hydration of the pearl millet powder. The traditional non-alcoholic pearl millet beverage (TNAPMB) was prepared by mixing water and pearl millet flour (1:1.25; PMF:Water) and hydrated for 3 h at 25 °C. The mixture was divided into ¼ slurry which was mixed with sprouted rice flour (SRF) and ¾ portion that was gelatinised with 1 L of boiling water and cooled to 40 °C. The two portions were mixed and fermented at 37 °C for 18 h, followed by sieving, dilution with water (1:0.5, filtrate:water), and pasteurization for 15 min at 85 °C. The growth of lactic acid bacteria, pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), and sugar in PNAPMB and MSNAPMB were determined at 3 h intervals during fermentation. The final beverages were also analysed for proximate, colour and metabolites. The lactic acid bacteria were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the fermentation period and increased from 3.32 to 7.97 log CFU/mL (pH 4.14) and 3.58 to 8.38 log CFU/mL (pH 3.65) for PNAPMB and MSNAPMB, respectively. The total titratable acidity significantly (p < 0.05) increased from 0.14 to 0.22% and from 0.17 to 0.38% in PNAPMB and MSNAPMB, respectively. The protein, total fat, moisture total sugar, and carbohydrates differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the samples. PNAPMB was preferred by a consumer panel followed by MSNAPMB and TNAPMB. Volatile compounds with beneficial anti-inflammatory and anti-pathogenic properties were identified in the beverages. Innovative fermentation of pearl millet extract using purified bioburden cultures was possible and the added Moringa oleifera leaf powder improved the nutritional quality of the resulting beverage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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Review

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19 pages, 3089 KiB  
Review
Process-Induced Modifications on Quality Attributes of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Flour
by Elohor Oghenechavwuko Udoro, Tonna Ashim Anyasi and Afam Israel Obiefuna Jideani
Processes 2021, 9(11), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9111891 - 22 Oct 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4959
Abstract
Cassava flour (CF) is a suitable representative and one of the easiest shelf-stable food products of the edible portion of the highly perishable cassava root (Manihot esculenta Crantz). The quality and type of CF are dependent on processing variables. Broadly categorized into [...] Read more.
Cassava flour (CF) is a suitable representative and one of the easiest shelf-stable food products of the edible portion of the highly perishable cassava root (Manihot esculenta Crantz). The quality and type of CF are dependent on processing variables. Broadly categorized into fermented and unfermented CF, unfermented CF is white, odorless, and bland, while fermented CF has a sour flavor accompanied by its characteristic odor. The use of fermented CF as a composite is limited because of their off-odors. Modifications in CF processing have given rise to prefixes such as: modified, unmodified, gelatinized, fortified, native, roasted, malted, wet, and dry. Consumed alone, mostly in reconstituted dough form with soups, CF may also serve as a composite in the processing of various flour-based food products. Fermenting with microorganisms such as Rhizopus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae results in a significant increase in the protein content and a decrease in the cyanide content of CF. However, there are concerns regarding its safety for consumption. Pre-gelatinized CF has potential for the textural and structural improvement of bakery products. The average particle size of the CF also influences its functional properties and, subsequently, the quality of its products. Cassava flour is best stored at ambient temperature. Standardizing the processing of CF is a challenge because it is mostly processed in artisanal units. Furthermore, each variety of the root best suits a particular application. Therefore, understanding the influence of processing variables on the characteristics of CF may improve the utilization of CF locally and globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Properties and Processing Process of Flour Products)
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