Consumers' perception and physicochemical properties of novel functional cookie enriched with medicinal plant Strobilanthes crispus

Abstract

PurposeOver the past decades, there has been a rising trend in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors in Malaysia. Consequently, functional food is gaining interest amongst health-conscious consumers. This study aimed to evaluate the functional potential of cookie enhanced with Strobilanthes crispus (SC) and to evaluate its physicochemical and organoleptic properties.Design/methodology/approachSensory evaluation was carried out using nine-point hedonic and line scales and the ranking test amongst consumer panels (n = 150) to evaluate control, 2, 4 and 6% SC cookies. Preferred formulation and control cookies were then subjected to chemical (moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate, calcium, sodium and potassium contents) and physical (texture profile and water activity [Aw]) analyses.FindingsThere was no significant difference (p < 0.05) in terms of overall acceptability and ranking scores between control and 2% SC cookies upon gender discrimination. Results indicated that incorporation of 2% SC into cookie caused significant enhancement (p < 0.05) of moisture, fat, ash, calcium and potassium contents but did not cause a significant effect on hardness, although loss of crispiness was observed after two weeks of storage at room temperature. This study showed that the 2% SC cookie did not diminish consumers' acceptance while increasing potassium content. Most notably, it can be declared as a source of calcium.Originality/valueThis original research features the incorporation of medicinal plant SC in the development of novel functional cookie and the results constitute unique findings pertaining to its nutritional contents. Remarkably, the findings of this research have contributed knowledge to existing literature as well as benefits food manufacturers in creating nutritious functional cookie to better meet the needs and expectations of consumers, healthcare providers, governmental organisations and consumer advocacy groups while maintaining health benefits without compromising consumers' acceptance.