Pigmented Cereals and Millets: Bioactive Profile and Food Applications

Consumers are increasingly focusing on the health benefits and nutrition from food, and are looking for colorants derived from natural sources to enhance these values. Colored cereal grains contain many phytochemicals, such as anthocyanins and carotenoids, associated with numerous health benefits. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the bioactive potential, food applications, and health benefits of colored cereal grains, and includes novel approaches to integrating them into food products. It is aimed at researchers, food regulatory and safety authorities, and food processing industries who are trying to minimize synthetic food colorants and dyes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 406 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2023
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry

In recent times, consumers have become increasingly focused on the health benefits and nutritional content of their food choices in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are seeking colorants derived from natural sources to enhance the nutritional and antioxidant properties of foods. Colored cereals, such as wheat, rice, barley, oat, maize, sorghum, and millets, contain a wealth of phytochemicals, including anthocyanins and carotenoids, which are associated with numerous health benefits.

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the bioactive potential, food applications, and health benefits of colored cereal grains. It provides novel approaches to integrating colored grain into food products in the food processing industries, focusing on high-value pigments found in the bran layer that can be easily extracted and utilized as functional foods and natural colorants. The book is aimed at researchers, food regulatory and safety authorities, and food processing industries seeking to minimize the use of synthetic food colorants and dyes. It offers a novel approach to using substitute synthetic dyes that can improve the nutritional value, appearance, texture, flavor, and storage properties of food products.

The growing demand for natural and healthy food options has driven the development of innovative approaches in the food industry. Colored cereal grains, with their rich phytochemical content, offer a promising solution to enhance the nutritional value and appeal of food products. By utilizing these natural colorants, food manufacturers can create products that not only taste good but also provide health benefits to consumers.

One of the key benefits of colored cereal grains is their high content of phytochemicals, such as anthocyanins and carotenoids. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are important for maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, colored cereal grains are also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber is essential for promoting healthy digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. It can also help reduce the risk of obesity and cardiovascular disease. Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, iron, and magnesium, are important for supporting the immune system, energy production, and overall health.

Colored cereal grains can be used in a variety of food products, including breakfast cereals, snacks, baked goods, and beverages. They can be incorporated into recipes in different ways, such as adding them to flour, blending them into smoothies, or using them as toppings for salads and desserts.

One of the challenges in using colored cereal grains is ensuring their stability and shelf life. However, there are several techniques that can be used to enhance the stability of these grains, such as drying, roasting, and grinding. These techniques can help reduce the risk of spoilage and maintain the nutritional value of the grains.

In conclusion, colored cereal grains offer a promising solution to enhance the nutritional value and appeal of food products. Their high content of phytochemicals, fiber, vitamins, and minerals makes them an ideal ingredient for promoting healthy eating habits. By utilizing these natural colorants, food manufacturers can create products that not only taste good but also provide health benefits to consumers. As the demand for natural and healthy food options continues to grow, it is likely that colored cereal grains will play an increasingly important role in the food industry.

Weight: 803g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839167096