SENSORY EVALUATION OF BISCUITS PRODUCED FROM A BLEND OF WHEAT AND UNRIPE PLANTAIN FLOUR IN DELTA STATE

Abstract

This study assessed the sensory assessment of biscuits produced from a blend of wheat and unripe plantain fiour in Delta State. Materials used include matured and unripe plantain which was obtained from a farm in Asaba, Delta State. The unripe plantains were carefully detached from the bunch, sorted, peeled and sliced to about 5 mm thickness. The dried chips were later milled and sealed for baking. The dough was mixed using a B8 universal mixer (model IPX1, 7076) at 550 rpm for 15 minutes until uniform smooth dough was obtained. All data were subjected to statistical analysis using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The mean were then separated by Duncan's New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 20.0 software. Biscuit samples were subjected to sensory evaluation within 24 hours after production. The sensory evaluation of the samples was carried out using twenty-five (25) panelists familiar with biscuits. The qualities assessed include aroma, appearance, taste, texture and general acceptability. The results ranged from 6.30-7.35, 6.45-7.30, 2.05-6.30 and 6.20-6.85 for aroma, appearance, taste and texture, re.spectively while the control had 7.45, 7.20, 7.45 and 6.75 for aroma, appearance, taste and texture, respectively. The study recommended among other things that Government should encourage biscuits produced from the blend of wheat fiour and unripe plantain because of its better mineral quality, high in calcium and iron content than those produced from 100 % wheat fiour.