Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
SB Kakade, PM Koteha, VS Wani, BR Bhite and UD Chavan

Abstract:
The present research work was carried out to explore the possibility of utilization of underutilized but highly nutrient rich little millet in biscuits. Little millet is a rich source of protein, crude fiber, micronutrient such as iron and can be utilized in bakery products such as biscuits. The little millet contains moisture 11.79%, fat 4.66%, carbohydrates 68.98%, protein 7.75%, crude fiber 7.58%, Phosphorus 218 mg/100 g, and iron 9.45 mg/100 g. Preliminary experiments were carried out to find out optimum level of little millet flour with maida for the preparation of quality biscuits. The quality biscuits were prepared from 30% maida and 70% little millet (MLF₇₀). The selected treatments were packed in LDPE and PP stored at ambient (30 ± 4 °C) for 90 days to study their storage feasibility. Chemical composition of the fresh biscuits prepared from 30% maida and 70% little millet flour (MLF₇₀) that showed moisture content was 4.15%, protein 9.02%, crude fat 28.55%, crude fiber 5.39%, carbohydrates 69.06% and iron 7.22 mg/ 100 g. The sensory evaluation of biscuits was carried out regularly at an interval of one month for 3 month during storage. The results on overall acceptability score of biscuits are influenced by storage. The results indicated that score for overall acceptability decreased for MLF₇₀ from 7.97 to 7.13 in LDPE and 7.83 to 6.44 in PP were observed for 90 days of storage. Storage study of biscuits showed that the biscuits prepared by incorporation of maida, and little millet flour can be stored up to 3 month in LDPE with minimum losses in sensory, nutritional and textural characteristics as compare to PP. There was no significant difference in protein, crude fiber, calcium and iron content with advancement of storage period during 3 month. The biscuits were found to be acceptable up to 3 month storage at ambient temperature. The total cost of production of biscuits prepared from maida and little millet flour (MLF₇₀) for 1 kg was Rs.156/-.