ISSN: 2155-9600
Ranjitha and Neena Joshi
Edible coatings are generally defined as continuous matrices that can be prepared from edible materials. Italian millet contains appreciable amounts of PUFA concentrated on the top layer of the milled grains that are involved in the development of rancidity on storage. Due to their high antioxidant activity Bangalore blue grapes, green tea and tulsi were selected as edible coating material for Italian millet. Dehusked grains were coated with edible material and dried. These were then analysed for functional properties and cooking characteristics. The bulk density was in the range of 0.69-0.82. There was no significant difference between solubility, swelling power, water and oil absorption capacity. Cooking time ranged from 13.16-15.20 min. Water uptake ratio ranged from 17-24. Coatings resulted in lighter product with a slightly reduced cooking time and higher water absorption than the non-coated grains. Coatings resulted in a lighter cooked sample, slight reduction in cooking time and higher water absorption capacity. However, the cooking and functional characteristic of the grain was acceptable.