FORMULATION AND SENSORY EVALUATION OF YOGHURT FORTIFIED WITH IRON AND CALCIUM-RICH SEEDS SESAME SEEDS FOR A LACTATING MOTHERS IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT The nutritional quality and functional properties of dairy products can be enhanced through plant-based fortification. This study evaluated the proximate composition, sensory attributes, and microbial quality of yoghurt fortified with defatted sesame flour at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% levels. The primary aim was to determine the effects of sesame flour fortification on nutritional content, palatability, and microbial safety, with a focus on producing a functional food suitable for lactating mothers. Yoghurt samples were prepared under controlled laboratory conditions, and proximate analysis was conducted using standard methods for moisture, protein, fat, ash, and crude fiber. Sensory evaluation was carried out using a 9-point hedonic scale, while microbial assessment included total viable count and identification of spoilage and pathogenic organisms. Results indicated that protein content increased from 3.8% in unfortified yoghurt to 6.2% at 15% fortification, and ash content rose from 0.7% to 1.5%, reflecting enhanced mineral content. Moisture and crude fiber showed slight reductions with increasing fortification. Sensory evaluation revealed that yoghurt fortified at 5–10% levels maintained high acceptability scores (≥7), while 15% fortification caused moderate declines in taste and texture. Microbial analysis showed reduced counts of spoilage organisms, particularly Pseudomonas spp., indicating potential antimicrobial effects of sesame bioactive compounds. The study concluded that moderate fortification of yoghurt with defatted sesame flour produced a nutritionally enriched, organoleptically acceptable, and microbiologically safer product. It was recommended that yoghurt manufacturers consider fortification up to 15% for optimal nutrient enhancement, and that further research investigate shelf life, nutrient bioavailability, and long-term health impacts on lactating mothers..