Quality characteristics of refined wheat flour (maida) based noodles containing chicken meat stored at ambient temperature under aerobic conditions

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to explore the possibilities of utilization of chicken meat in the preparation of chicken meat noodles and subsequent storage at ambient temperature. Design/methodology/approach – Chicken meat was incorporated at the levels, viz., 0 and 40 per cent, replacing refined wheat flour in the formulation. Proximate composition, pH, water activity (aw), free fatty acid (FFA), thio-barbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS), water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), textural profile analysis (TPA), microbial quality and sensory evaluation were assessed at 10-day interval up to 30 days. Findings – Moisture, aw, TBARS, FFA, WAI, crispiness, total plate count (TPC) and yeast and mould values increased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas, fibre, ash, pH, WSI, hardness, work of shearing and sensory attributes showed significant (p < 0.05) decrease. However, all these parameter, viz., microbial quality, TBRS, FFA and sensory attributes, were within the acceptable limit during the entire storage study. Research limitations/implications – Quality of the products may be improved by the incorporation of some natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent in chicken meat noodles. Originality/value – Consumption and demand of the noodles is increasing due to its easy preparation and taste; however, it is poor in nutritive quality. Incorporation of the chicken meat in the noodles improves the nutritive values and sensory attributes, which is important for the marketability of the meat products. The keeping quality of chicken meat noodles was comparable to the control noodles at ambient temperature up to 30 days. Noodles industry provides an alternate sector for the utilization of meat and enhancing its overall quality attributes.