Natural Colorant from Black Rice Bran Improves Functional Properties and Consumer Acceptability of Yogurt

Abstract

Background and Objective: Natural food colorants are utilized by the food industry as a safe health enhancing substitute for synthetic dyes. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of natural black rice bran colorant powder (BCP) addition on the properties of yogurt during storage at 4EC for 28. Materials and Methods: Plain yogurt and yogurt containing different levels of BCP [0.0125, 0.025, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.20% (%w/v)] were analyzed for total anthocyanins and phenolic contents, physicochemical quality parameters, functional properties and sensory characteristics. Results: Results showed that bioactive compounds and functional properties of yogurts with added BCP were improved and sensory characteristics were acceptable to panelists over storage time, with optimal level of BCP addition determined as 0.05%. Yogurts prepared by adding BCP contained higher total anthocyanins and exhibited higher liking scores in both color and appearance. Conclusion: Yogurt fortification with natural colorant powder from black rice bran has potential to improve both quality and functional properties of yogurt.