Acceptability of Fat-Free Chocolate Bar Cookies by Dietary Managers

Abstract Low dietary fat intake may reduce one's risk of cardiovascular disease. In this study, dietary managers determined the acceptability and their willingness to serve fat-free chocolate bar cookies prepared with either okra gum or applesauce as the fat substitute. Sensory ratings for fat-free cookies with okra gum were acceptable and similar or better than the full-fat version. Fat-free chocolate bar cookies with applesauce were rated neutral to moderately acceptable on all characteristics except flavor. However, ratings were lower than full-fat cookies in all areas except smell, and dietary managers were least willing to serve the fat-free cookies with applesauce. In conclusion, fat-free chocolate bar cookies with okra gum may be a novel alternative for foodservice operations offering fat-free baked products.