Radhika S. Dharap 1, Atmaya G. Vartak 1, Deepali Dande 1, Rutwik R. Thengodkar 1
1Food and Nutritional Research Laboratory, Cyanohealth Pvt.Ltd,
B/202 Dipraj C.H.S, Baburao Paranjpe Chowk, Vazira Naka, Borivali West, Mumbai-400-091, Maharashtra State, INDIA.
Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are global burden affecting 41 million people worldwide. NCDs affect both genders as manifestations due to behavioral habits, environmental, physiological, genetic factors in all age groups. Unhealthy diets are one of the major reasons for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, CVD etc. Ultra-processed foods derive their popularity from its palatability, increased shelf-life, convenience and are expected to increase in demand. This emphasizes the need for interventions by introducing nutrivalent foods to tackle the inconspicuous pandemic.
Through this paper, we accentuate on counteracting the ill effects of ultra-processed foods by utilizing cyanobacteria and seaweeds. Spirulina platensis functions not only as nutrient rich protein food but also imparts antioxidative, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory effects. Seaweeds have a long history of human consumption and is a part of regular South Asian cuisines. In this study, a novel formulation of popular processed foods containing whipped cream, ice-creams, cookies etc. using algae has been attempted to explore it as functional food to target lifestyle disorders and evaluate its ameliorative potentials by modifying carbohydrate profile. Based on our findings, using algal extracts, sugar alternative blend exhibits physiological effect that can be attributed to the presence of numerous bioactive constituents in the formulation. The protein signatures also reiterate the presence of various protein constituents, higher in quantity and better quality when compared to those available in the market. These formulated products emerge out as a potential candidate for functional food with its biochemical properties and sensory perceptions are elucidated in this study.
Keywords: Spirulina, cookies, functional food, therapeutic food, algal nutrition