Physicochemical characteristics of air-dried instant noodles formulated with raw amaranth flour: impact on consumer liking, acceptability and purchase intent of soups

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of raw amaranth flour on physicochemical characteristics of instant noodles and the impact in liking, acceptability, and purchase intent of prepared soups. Four formulations of air-dried instant noodles (50%, 40%, 20% and 0% amaranth) and one commercial product were evaluated in terms of physicochemical and antioxidant activity characteristics. Soups prepared with chicken seasoning were evaluated in terms of consumer liking, acceptability and purchase intent (N = 200). Amaranth-formulated instant noodles were found to have higher fibre content, protein content, solubility index, cohesiveness, and antioxidant activity than commercial and wheat formulated treatments. On the contrary, a decrease in luminosity, adhesiveness and pasting properties was found. In general, consumer liking of soups was reduced in amaranth-formulated treatments. Aroma was critical for acceptability and colour was a driver for purchase intent. Including raw amaranth flour in the formulation of instant noodles increased their nutritional quality. However, sensory characteristics of soups should be optimised to meet consumer needs.