Sensorial Evaluation and Physical Chemical Characterization of a Beverage Based on Whey and β -Glucans as a Potential Prevention of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Abstract

Whey and B-glucans are functional food ingredients that contribute to the prevention of non-communicable diseases. The objective of the study was to develop a functional beverage based on whey, B-glucans, and blackberry concentrate for the prevention of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, determining its sensory, physicochemical, and nutritional qualities. The following phases were developed: 1) formulation with 75%, 85%, and 90% whey and 25%, 15%, and 10% blackberry concentrate, with a fixed amount of 0.243 g β -glucans in 100 ml; 2) microbiological analysis to ensure the safety of the beverage; 3) sensory analysis with untrained panelists to assess the degree of preference (appearance, color, odor, flavor, viscosity, acidity, sweetness), and general acceptance, with a seven-point hedonic scale to rate the level of acceptability; 4) physicochemical and nutritional characterization of the beverage with the highest acceptance. An experimental design using complete random blocks was employed. Data analysis was performed with variance (ANDEVA) and mean DUNCAN separation at a 95% confidence level, using SAS®. A correlation study was conducted on acceptance analysis. A nutritional label was developed for the control beverage and the treatment with the highest acceptance. The formulation with 75% whey, 25% blackberry concentrate, and 0.243 g of β -glucan obtained the highest acceptance, with flavor and sweetness being the attributes that contributed to its acceptance. Nutritionally, the beverage with 80 cal, would be considered fortified with fiber (2 g), free of cholesterol, sodium, and saturated fat, according to the Central American Technical Regulation on Nutritional Labeling (Version 67.01.60:10). It is recommended that the effect of this beverage be measured to determine the benefits.