The effect of semolina replacement with protein powder from fish (Pseudophycis bachus) on the physicochemical characteristics of pasta

This study replaced semolina with red cod (Pseudophycis bachus) fish powder in pasta at 5, 10, 15 and 20 g/100 g levels. The effects on the chemical composition, physical properties (optimal cooking time, cooking loss, water absorption index, swelling index and colour) and textural properties (firmness and extensibility) of the supplemented pasta samples were evaluated compared with a control sample. Fortification with fish powder increased protein, lipid and ash contents significantly (P < 0.05). Cooking loss increased (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of fish powder. However, all pasta samples were in the acceptable range (8 g/100 g) for cooking loss. Fish powder incorporation decreased optimal cooking time, swelling index and water absorption significantly (P < 0.05), whilst increasing firmness and resistance to uniaxial extension of pasta. The addition of fish powder increased yellowness (b*) of the pasta significantly (P < 0.05) compared to control sample. Thus, pasta fortified with fish powder has the potential to be a technological alternative for the food industry to provide nutritional enriched pasta.