Effect of short chain inulin on the rheological and sensory characteristics of reduced fat set coconut milk yoghurt.

The effect of short-chain inulin on the rheological and sensory properties of reduced fat set coconut milk yoghurt was studied with whole fat coconut milk yoghurt as reference. The concentration of short-chain inulin was varied at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% w/v respectively. All the yoghurt samples displayed higher elastic modulus G' than viscous modulus G". However, 15% inulin yoghurt had the highest value for G' & G". The 15 and 20% inulin yoghurts displayed high yield stress (1036.7 ± 2.39 & 368.23 ± 0.30 Pa). Addition threshold of 15% was established, beyond this level there was a significant decrease in the yield stress, firmness, cohesiveness and consistency values of the reduced fat yoghurts. Using Pearson correlation analysis, no correlation was observed between firmness and yield stress, Similarly, there was significant correlation between the yield stress and instrumental viscosity r = 0.957; p < 0.01. Furthermore, all yoghurt samples displayed strain thinning behavior except whole fat yoghurt. Carbohydrate was affected by inulin incorporation. Addition of short chain inulin improved sensorial characteristics such as taste, and flavor, but did not display significant difference in color and odor of yoghurt samples. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.