Physicochemical and sensory characterization of gluten-free fresh pasta with addition of passion fruit peel flour

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to develop a gluten-free fresh pasta formulation with addition of yellow passion fruit peel flour (PPF). A control formulation containing a mixture of rice flour and corn flour and formulations with 10 and 20% of PPF addition were produced. Sensory analysis, physicochemical characterization and technological properties were assessed. The PPF addition to gluten-free pasta increased cooking time, soluble solids loss and water absorption; it also modified the color of the formulations. The control formulation and the formulation containing 10% PPF had the best sensory parameters, leading to an acceptability index over 70%. The 10% PPF addition increased fiber (3.25%) and ashes (2.15%) content and also lowered percentage of carbohydrates (41.19%) and energy value (223.26 kcal/80g); content of proteins and lipids were similar between the formulations. Principal component analysis showed that the control formulation stands out due to its sensory properties while the formulation containing 10% PPF improved nutritional properties. Therefore, the increase in nutritional value of gluten-free fresh pasta due to the PPF addition can be considered an alternative to meet market demands for healthier food choices