Co-fermentation and post-processing: development of a novel myrtle rice beverage, and analysis of its product characteristics

Abstract

To fully develop the medicinal and edible value of myrtle and improve the market visibility, myrtle berries and glutinous rice were used as raw materials and co-fermented using rice leaven. Uniform design method was used to determine the optimal fermentation conditions. The co-fermentation product was then underwent post-processing, including blending, grinding and homogenization, to produce a novel myrtle rice beverage, which was analyzed for product characteristics. Results showed that the optimal fermentation conditions were a myrtle berries of 24%, a rice leaven of 1%, a water addition amount of 100%, a fermentation temperature of 22°C, a fermentation time of 96 h. The co-fermented product was diluted 1:3 with water, ground, and homogenized with 0.1% agar and 0.2% xanthan gum to produce the final myrtle rice beverage. The beverage boasts a low sugar and alcohol content, along with a moderate level of acidity, making it a healthy beverage with antioxidant properties.