Asian Food Science Journal

Aim: This study aims to analyze Nutritional and Bioactive properties of a novel composite flour and paratha made from it, developed by incorporating hemp seed flour, corn silk flour, and chickpea flour alongside wheat flour, targeting the creation of a high-protein and high-fiber flour blend for food product formulations.

Study Design:  A randomized experimental study was conducted to evaluate the functional and nutritional profile of the developed composite flour and paratha taking whole wheat flour as control.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food Science and Nutrition, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, between August 2019 to March 2023.

Methodology: Various ratios of hemp seed, corn silk, and chickpea flours were blended with whole wheat flour to make the composite flour. Paratha, a common shallow fried Indian flatbread, was prepared from the blend. Sensory evaluation of the paratha was conducted to find in addition to analyses of functional properties, proximate composition, dietary fiber content, in vitro protein digestibility, bioactive compounds, and fatty acid profiles of both flour blend and paratha.

Results: The composite flour demonstrated a higher water absorption capacity (179.63 ml/100g) than whole wheat flour (147.67 ml/100g). Proximate analysis revealed a crude protein content of 17.06% and crude fiber content of 7.81% in the composite flour, significantly exceeding than that of whole wheat flour. Total dietary fiber was recorded at 21.37 g/100g, with an in vitro protein digestibility of 76.70%. The total phenolic content was markedly higher in composite flour (223.51 mg GAE/100g) compared to whole wheat flour (49.82 mg GAE/100g). Sensory evaluation indicated that the parathas made from composite flour had acceptable taste and texture with superior nutritional profile.

Conclusion: The study successfully developed a composite flour with superior nutritional attributes, highlighting the potential of incorporating wild and underutilized plant resources in sustainable food production. This novel composite flour can be a valuable addition to diets, offering enhanced protein, fiber, and bioactive compounds compared to traditional wheat flour, particularly in the preparation of nutritious parathas.