The Role of Maltodextrin Concentration in Maintaining Storage Stability of Dried Fruit Foams Texturized Using Plant Protein–Polysaccharide Blends

Abstract

Hydrocolloids are widely used in food processing because of their texture-forming abilities, which help to preserve the quality of sensitive compounds, e.g., in dried fruit foams, which have recently emerged in healthier alternative snacks. Our aim was to investigate the protective role of maltodextrin in improving the storage stability of fruit foams. This study evaluated the effect of maltodextrin concentrations on the stability of the following quality parameters: anthocyanins, ascorbic acid, color, texture, and sensory perception of dried foamed raspberry pulp during storage. This study compared three concentrations (5%, 15%, and 30% w/w) of maltodextrin in mixtures, evaluating their effect on the stability of these parameters over a 12-week storage period. The foam samples were stored at 37 °C to accelerate chemical reactions under vacuum packaging conditions which excluded oxygen. The addition of 30% maltodextrin to the raspberry pulp blend resulted in the highest retentions in all compounds tested, i.e., 74% for ascorbic acid and 87% for anthocyanins. Color and texture were similarly preserved. Adding 30% maltodextrin to the mixture did not negatively influence the acceptability of sensory perception. Maltodextrin thus represents an effective protective agent for preserving nutritional and sensory qualities for a longer storage period. Hence, using MD together with potato protein was optimal for enhancing the storage stability of fruit foam, which is important for the food industry.