Product Development of Freeze Dried Instant Millet Porridge Powder

Yan, Pui Jing (2026) Product Development of Freeze Dried Instant Millet Porridge Powder. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

Millet, a small seeded cereal grain, is known for its gluten-free, high dietary fiber and low glycemic properties. This research study focuses on developing freeze dried instant millet porridge powder enriched with functional ingredients such as pumpkin, red dates and chia seeds. Three formulations were prepared and evaluated: control (millet, pumpkin), formulation 1 (millet, pumpkin, red dates), formulation 2 (millet, pumpkin, chia seeds). The proximate composition, physicochemical properties, reconstitution properties, and sensory properties of porridge powder were evaluated and analyzed. Results showed significant differences in moisture content, crude protein, crude fat, total ash, total carbohydrate content and total energy content in all formulations. Results revealed that formulation 2 had the highest protein content (11.62%), fat content (2.01%) and total energy content (378.56 kcal). Meanwhile, formulation 1 showed the highest moisture content (7.53%) and total dietary fiber content (9.59g/100g). Physicochemical analysis showed significant differences in colour, pH, brix and water activity with formulation 1 showing lower pH and lightness compared to control and formulation 2. The reconstitution properties among the three formulations demonstrated good solubility and dispersibility. The sensory qualities (appearance, colour, texture, taste, aroma and overall acceptability) of the porridge powder were evaluated by 30 panellists using a 9-point hedonic scale and rank preference test. There was no significant difference observed in the texture of porridge with formulation 1 scoring higher than control and formulation 2. Furthermore, formulation 1 was most preferred by panelists, attributed by the natural sweetness and aroma from red dates. Overall, the results suggest that freeze dried instant millet porridge powder enriched with functional ingredients provides a convenient and nutritive alternative for consumers in addressing food security and promoting health