Characterization and utilization of fermented cassava flour in breadmaking and placali preparation

Abstract

Freshly harvested cassava roots from yace cultivar were collected in five regions of Ivory Coast and characterized. These roots were processed into fermented flour. The physicochemical characteristics of flours were evaluated following standard methods and, the ability to be valorised in placali preparation and breadmaking were assessed by sensory analysis of products obtained. Both roots and fermented flours were energizing foods. Moisture (6.09-10.49%), protein (1.12-1.57%), ash (0.87-1.39%), fat (0.20-0.51%), total sugars (1.43-1.80%) and cyanide contents (3.33-10.00 mg HCN/kg) of fermented flours were low, while starch (72.79-84.23%), total carbohydrate (93.67-96.45%) and energy (384.53-393.50 kcal/100 g) contents were high. Minerals like phosphorus (78.00-133.33 mg/100 g), calcium (52.66-142.92 mg/100 g), magnesium (27.77- 69.26 mg/100 g), iron (2.5-8.20 mg/100 g) and zinc (1.56-6.98 mg/100 g) were available. The sensory evaluation test indicated a significant difference (p<0.05) between the placali samples in terms of visual appearance, odour, taste, texture and overall appreciation. It is a clear indication that reconstitution proportion (flour to water ratio) affects all the hedonic appreciations assessed. Placali prepared from fermented cassava flour were appreciated when reconstitution proportion was within 1:3.5 and 1:3. Composite breads of 85% wheat and 15% cassava fermented flour were accepted by a sensory evaluation panellist. Fermented flour has been successfully used in breadmaking and placali preparation. It is a means of diversifying cassava utilization form.

Keywords: Gelatinized food, yace cultivar, sensory evaluation, composite flour, bread.