Effect of Broccoli Powder on Consumer Perception and Sensory Characteristics of Cookies

The effects of baking with broccoli powder on the consumer perception and sensory characteristics were investigated using a model system of cookies incorporated with broccoli powder as a value-added food ingredient. Broccoli powder was incorporated into cookie dough at 5 levels (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, w/w) by replacing equivalent amount of wheat flour of the cookie dough. After aging and sheeting, cookies were baked at 170C for 8 min in an oven. The baked cookies were cooled to room temperature for 1 hour and packed in airtight bags prior to all measurements. Control received the most favorable mean score, which was not significantly different from samples with 1% broccoli powder for color preference (p>0.05). Results of the consumer preference on taste showed a similar trend. Consumers did not find any significant differences on aftertaste and flavor among samples prepared by replacing wheat flour with up to 2% broccoli powder (p>0.05). Overall, incorporation of 1% broccoli powder in the formulation would result in the most favorable broccoli cookies for the consumers without sacrificing the sensory qualities, while still taking advantages of health benefits of broccoli. Correlation analysis indicated that broccoli powder concentration was significantly negatively correlated with the consumer preference for color, taste, aftertaste, flavor, overall acceptability and positively correlated with sensory color, taste, and flavor (p<0.05). Consumers' color, taste, aftertaste, and flavor were well correlated with the overall acceptability (p<0.05). Sensory intensity results are also presented.