Particle breakdown dynamics of heterogeneous foods during mastication: Peanuts embedded inside different food matrices

Heterogeneous foods are widely consumed but little is known about the dynamics of their breakdown during mastication. To investigate these dynamics the particle size and bolus mass at regular stages of the chewing sequence were investigated using a single subject, who was carefully selected according to strict mastication and dental criteria. A standardized volume of both a gelatine gel and chocolate matrix containing roasted peanuts was chewed and expectorated after a specified number of chews or at the point of swallowing. The mass of various components of the bolus was determined along with peanut particle parameters (d50, broadness (b), and specific surface area) at each interval.Results showed that for this subject the type of matrix influenced the pathway that the peanut particles (embedded inside each matrix) were broken down. The d50 of peanut particles within the bolus of the gelatine gel were greater than within the bolus of the chocolate throughout the chewing sequence until the point of swallowing. At the point of swallowing, the d50 of peanut particles inside the bolus of the gelatine gel and chocolate were the same. The broadness value (b) and specific surface area of the peanut particles in the bolus of the chocolate were greater than those in the bolus of the gelatine gel throughout the chewing sequence. The matrices also induced different dynamic trends in the mass of bolus components during the chewing sequence.

► Particle breakdown during the chewing sequence of heterogeneous foods was studied.
► Two foods were used: gelatine gel and chocolate matrices containing peanuts.
► The matrix influenced the pathway by which the peanut particles were broken down.
► Peanut particles were larger in the gelatine during chewing until swallowing.
► Spread in peanut particle size was greater in the gelatine throughout chewing.