Life Sciences Commons^™

Effect Of Nixtamalization On The Chemical And Functional Properties Of Maize, Samuel Sefa-Dedeh, Beatrice Cornelius, Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa

Professor Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa

The high utilization and consumption levels of maize in developing countries calls for investigations into new methods of processing to help introduce variety as well as improve the functionality and nutrient quality of maize-based foods. This study was carried out to determine the effect of nixtamalization on the chemical and functional characteristics of maize. A 2X4 factorial experimental design with cooking time (0, 30 min) and lime concentration (0, 0.33, 0.5 and 1.0%) was performed. Chemical composition (moisture, protein and ash), pH, titratable acidity, water absorption, colour, cooked paste viscosity and texture were determined using standard methods. The cooking time …