Effect of preparation method on viscosity and energy density of fortified humanitarian food-aid commodities

Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2009:60 Suppl 7:219-28. doi: 10.1080/09637480902950605. Epub 2009 May 15.

Abstract

Corn soy blend, wheat soy blend, and corn soy milk are fortified food-aid commodities distributed by the US Government, and often used in complementary feeding programs. The viscosity and energy density of these products was compared in cooked porridges, at concentrations between 8% and 20% (w/w), using a Bostwick consistometer. All three products required nearly 20% addition of dry meal in water to achieve the energy density of 0.8 kcal/g, recommended for complementary foods. At this concentration, all three were excessively viscous. Cooking times beyond 1 min showed no significant increase in viscosity. Corn soy milk was less viscous than the other products at lower concentrations. Replacement of corn meal and soy with vegetable oil produces less viscous porridges but reformulation would be needed to maintain protein and micronutrient levels. Significant process and formulation changes are needed in these products to increase their suitability for use as complementary foods.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chemical Phenomena*
  • Cooking / methods*
  • Crops, Agricultural / chemistry*
  • Edible Grain / chemistry*
  • Energy Intake
  • Food, Fortified / analysis*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant Food / analysis*
  • Milk / chemistry
  • Nutritive Value
  • Plant Oils / analysis
  • Relief Work
  • Soy Foods / analysis
  • Time Factors
  • Triticum / chemistry
  • United States
  • United States Agency for International Development
  • United States Department of Agriculture
  • Viscosity
  • Zea mays / chemistry

Substances

  • Plant Oils