Abstract:
Yogurt is a popular dairy product known for its rich nutritional profile and health benefits. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in fortifying yogurt with various natural ingredients to enhance its nutritional value. Date pits, often discarded as waste, contain a range of bioactive compounds such as dietary fiber, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds. By incorporating date pits into yogurt, a synergistic effect is expected, combining the inherent nutritional properties of yogurt with the added health benefits of date pits. Research has shown that the dietary fiber present in date pits can promote digestive health, aid in weight management, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. The high fiber content can help regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and promote a healthy gut microbiota. Additionally, the fiber in date pits can contribute to increased satiety, leading to better appetite control and potential benefits in managing body weight. The antioxidants and phenolic compounds found in date pits possess potential anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which may further contribute to improved health outcomes. These bioactive compounds scavenge harmful free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. In the process of incorporating date pits into yogurt, the pits were removed and dried using a hot air oven at 30°C for 48 hours until they turned into dry flakes. The yogurt was prepared from fresh milk obtained from Melkin dairy, and starter cultures including Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus spp. Bulgaricus, and Bifidobacterium lactis were used. Proximate analysis of ash, moisture, and fiber was conducted on the samples, along with Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) analysis. The pH of the yogurt was also measured, ranging from 2.85 to 2.92 at room temperature. The final product is packed in packaging material recommended by the Punjab Pure Foods Law 2017, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The incorporation of date pits into yogurt offers the potential to create a nutritious and flavorful product with added health benefits from the bioactive compounds present in date pits.
Page(s):
379-379
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on International Conference on Food and Applied Sciences (ICFAS-23) 3-5 August 23, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023