2008 Annual Report - Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products ...

Objective
The objective of this
project was to assist a client in
fortifying a food with several
forms of omega-3 fatty acids.
The client then used the prototype
to market an ingredient
and demonstrate its ease of application
to potential buyers.
Approach
After an initial meeting to
determine the needed volume
of the product, necessary
equipment, and personnel, the
FAPC worked with the client
to manufacture several test
batches of the food fortified
with omega-3 fatty acids. The
pilot plant product batches
were manufactured to specifications
provided by the client.
By adding them to separate
42 –– Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center
Omega-3 fatty acid
fortification of a prototype food
test batches, both powdered and liquid
forms of omega-3 fatty acids were
evaluated.
Then, they were monitored to
determine how easily they could be introduced
into the product, if there were
any subsequent problems with separation,
and if there were any issues with
the formation of off-flavors and/or
aromas. Additionally, the pH and fill
temperature of the prototypes were
monitored to determine if they would
impact the stability of the omega-3
fatty acids.
Slight differences in initial solubility
were observed between the two
forms of omega-3s. However, they did
not appear to be significant, no separation
was observed, and the flavor of
the product was sufficient to mask the
flavor and aroma of the omega-3s. Additionally,
pH and fill temperature did
not appear to affect their stability.
Benefits
From this project, consumers will
have additional food choices that provide
them with the benefit of omega-3
fatty acids.
Economic Impacts
The client may be able to increase
sales by demonstrating the ease of application/use
of the ingredient and its
compatibility with different types of
food systems.
Funding
The client provided funding for
this project.
Collaborators
Darren Scott, FAPC food scientist
and sensory specialist, was the principal
investigator for this project. David
Moe, FAPC pilot plant manager, also
was a collaborator.