Development of Vitamin D and Protein Rich Energy Bar with Mushroom

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D and protein deficiencies are amongst the most prevalent malnutrition problems of India and several other developing nations. In the present study an attempt has been made to develop a Vitamin D and protein rich energy bar utilizing mushroom powder. Among the vegetarian foods, mushroom is a very good source of Vitamin D and also rich in good quality protein. Methods: Twelve formulations of energy bar prepared with varying proportions of mushroom powder (0-30%), sweeteners (40-50%) and cereals (20- 45%) were analyzed for nutritional, anti-oxidative, sensory, color and textural properties. Result: A significant improvement in vitamin D, protein, crude fiber, ash and antioxidant activity contents of energy bars with increasing proportions of mushroom powder was observed. Energy bar prepared with 20% mushroom powder, 40% sweetener, 25% cereals, 10% peanuts and a 5% dry fruits showed good sensory acceptability along with a good amount of vitamin D (423.99 IU/100 g), protein (15.18 g/100 g), antioxidant activity (78.52% scavenging of DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) crude fiber (4.76 g/100 g) and ash content (2.60 g/100 g). Single bar (50 g) of this snack can provide 53% of recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of Vitamin D and 12.7% of RDA of protein for an adult.