Physical, Chemical, And Rheological Properties Of Flour From Accessions Of Frafra Potato (Solenostemon Rotundifolius)
Date
2023
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
Abstract
Frafra Potato (FP) is a climate-smart crop facing extinction in the tropical regions of Africa due to inadequate
information about its properties. This study determined the physicochemical, functional, and rheological characteristics of flours from ten FP accessions to gauge their suitability for culinary purposes. The flour yield from FP
tubers ranged from 59.3% (E134) to 69.3% (E111). While FP flours (FPF) exhibited consistent colour across
Accessions and variations in paste clarity were noted, ranging from 5.2% (E145 and Maa-Lana) to 8.6% (WAAPP).
The least gelation concentration varied from 8% (WAAPP) to 12% (E 82, 111, 132, 134, 145). Released acquisitions showed higher protein and ash content than unreleased ones. Mineral composition differed significantly
among accessions, including iron, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, each with varying bioavailability percentages.
Vitamin A content also varied across accessions. Proteins common in tuber crops, such as lipoxygenase, patatin,
sporamin, tarin, and protease inhibitors (Bowman-Birk PIs) were identified in FPF. Amino acid analysis revealed
nineteen amino acids, including seven essentials. FPF characteristics included a bulk density of 0.9 g/ml, oil and
water binding capacities of 3 g/g and 1.3 g/g, respectively, a pH of 6.4, and a titratable acidity of 0.5. All FP flours
displayed standard non-Newtonian behaviour, exhibiting pseudoplastic properties. They also showed a type II
sigmoidal sorption curve, indicating increased equilibrium moisture content with higher water activity. Moisture
sorption studies predicted a safe storage maximum allowable moisture content. These findings have practical implications.
implications for flour packaging and storage. The study underscores the culinary potential of Frafra potato and its
role in addressing food and nutrition security in Ghana and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Frafra potato, Tuber proteins, Food security