Optimised Formulation of a New Sweet Apricot Kernel-Enriched Yoghurt: Assessment of Physicochemical, Sensory and Antioxidant Properties.

Research background: The addition of sweet apricot kernel powder, a by-product of apricot processing, to yoghurt appears to be particularly interesting option for the innovation of new food products. This study focuses on the formulation of a novel yoghurt enriched with sweet apricot kernel powder, sugar and milk powder.

Experimental approach: Different yoghurts were prepared by mixing sweet apricot kernel powder, sugar and milk powder as ingredients based on the simplex-centroid mixture design. The optimisation process took into account the physicochemical, antioxidant and sensory properties of the yoghurt.

Results and conclusions: The results showed that the optimum values of sugar, milk powder and apricot kernel powder were 3.07, 2.16 and 2.77 %, respectively. The physicochemical assays showed that the addition of apricot kernel powder led to a significant increase in total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, syneresis, viscosity and acidity. The addition of sugar and milk powder also had a significant effect on the taste, texture and consistency of the yoghurt. Moreover, the enrichment of the product with apricot kernel powder significantly influenced the colour, odour, taste, texture and consistency. In conclusion, the optimised yoghurt enriched with apricot kernel had an interesting phenolic content and antioxidant properties with sensory acceptability, while reducing the amount of sugar and milk powder. This confirms the potential of using sweet apricot kernels as an ingredient in yoghurt production.

Novelty and scientific contribution: The use of a simplex-centroid mixture design to optimise a new yoghurt formulation enriched with sweet apricot kernels shows significant improvements in total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and sensory acceptability. In addition, less sugar and milk powder is needed. The addition of sweet apricot kernels to yoghurt is therefore a new approach to improving its nutritional value and sensory appeal.