PRODUCTION AND QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF “HIKIMA” (ROSE COOKIES) FROM WHOLE WHEAT, DATE, EGG AND SESAME SEEDS
Abstract
This study was conducted to formulate and evaluate the quality characteristics of Hikma (rose cookies) produced from varying blends of whole-wheat flour, date fruit flour, and sesame seed powder. Three samples were prepared: Sample A (40% wheat, 30% date, 20% sesame), Sample B (50% wheat, 20% date, 10% sesame), and Sample C (60% wheat, 10% date, 0% sesame) serving as the control. The proximate composition, mineral content, microbiological quality, and sensory properties of the samples were analyzed using standard analytical methods as described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC, 2004).The results showed that Sample A had the highest protein (6.58%), fat (13.65%), and ash (7.65%) contents, while carbohydrate values ranged from 68.30% to 68.71% across the samples. Mineral analysis revealed that calcium and iron were the predominant minerals, with values ranging from 0.368–1.302 mg/dm³ and 0.368–0.693 mg/dm³ respectively. Microbiological analysis indicated that all samples had bacterial and fungal counts within the safe limits for ready-to-eat foods, with identified bacterial species including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Fungal isolates included Rhizopus spp., Fusarium spp., and Candida possessory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale showed that all samples were generally acceptable, with mean scores above 7.0 for taste, aroma, texture, and overall acceptability. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) among the samples in all sensory attributes. The findings indicate that the inclusion of date fruit and sesame seed enhanced the nutritional value of Hikma without adversely affecting its sensory quality. The product was microbiologically safe and nutritionally balanced, suggesting its potential as a healthy, locally produced snack that can contribute to dietary diversity and improved nutrition in Nigeria.
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