A review of recent advances and techniques in the noodle mixing process

Real-Time Monitoring of Dough Quality in a Dough Mixer Based on Current Change

Accurate assessment of dough kneading is pivotal in pasta processing, where both under-kneading and over-kneading can detrimentally impact dough quality. This study proposes an innovative approach utilizing a cost-effective current sensor to ascertain the optimal kneading time for dough. Throughout the kneading process, the dough's tensile resistance gradually increases, reflecting the evolution of properties such as the gluten network. This leads to a discernible ascending phase in dough quality, evident through an increase in the load current of the mixing machine, succeeded by a subsequent decline beyond a certain threshold. The identification of this peak point enables the achievement of optimal dough consistency, thereby enhancing the overall quality of both the dough and subsequent pasta products. After the final product quality assessment, this novel method promises to be a valuable tool in optimizing pasta processing and ensuring consistent product quality.

Impact of wheat bran dietary fiber on gluten aggregation behavior in dough during noodle processing

We herein evaluated the impact of adding wheat bran dietary fiber (WBDF) on the aggregation behavior of gluten in dough at various stages of the noodle-making process. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy images confirmed the effective insertion of WBDF particles into the gluten matrix. Importantly, the gap between WBDF and gluten widened during the rolling process. The addition of WBDF led to a reduction in glutenin macropolymer (GMP) content and an elevation in sulfhydryl content, induced the depolymerization behaviors at the molecular level. Additionally, it facilitated the conversion of α-helices and β-turns into β-sheets and random coils within the dough. Moreover, the processing and addition of WBDF contributed to a decrease in weight loss, whereas the degradation temperature remained constant. Resting decreased the sulfhydryl content, whereas sheeting and cutting increased it, further fostering protein depolymerization in the presence of WBDF. These actions significantly increased the β-sheets and random coils content at the expense of β-turns and α-helices content. Significantly, controlled processing emerged as a crucial factor in enhancing gluten depolymerization induced by WBDF in the dough. This comprehensive study provides a nuanced perspective on controlling dough processing to strike a balance between dietary fiber-rich and high-quality foods.

Starch-based noodles: Current technologies, properties, and challenges

Starch noodles are gaining interest due to the massive popularity of gluten-free foods. Modified starch is generally used for noodle production due to the functional limitations of native starches. Raw materials, methods, key processing steps, additives, cooking, and textural properties determine the quality of starch noodles. The introduction of traditional, novel, and natural chemical additives used in starch noodles and their potential effects also impacts noodle quality. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the native and modified starch as raw materials and key processing steps for the production of starch noodles. Further, this article aimed to comprehensively collate some of the vital information published on the thermal, pasting, cooking, and textural properties of starch noodles. Technological, nutritional, and sensory challenges during the development of starch noodles are well discussed. Due to the increasing demands of consumers for safe food items with a long shelf life, the development of starch noodles and other convenience food products has increased. Also, the incorporation of modified starches overcomes the shortcomings of native starches, such as lack of viscosity and thickening power, retrogradation characteristics, or hydrophobicity. Starch can improve the stability of the dough structure but reduces the strength and resistance to deformation of the dough. Some technological, sensory, and nutritional challenges also impact the production process.

Evolution of the morphological, structural, and molecular properties of gluten protein in dough with different hydration levels during mixing

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Changes in hydration level induced different gluten evolution patterns and dynamics.

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Appropriate mixing at high hydration levels results in a more uniform gluten network.

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Gluten network in highly hydrated dough was more susceptible to mechanical force.

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High hydration level induced more ordered conformation and depolymerization of GMP.

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PCA and CA revealed that hydration level has more influence than mixing degree.

To understand the formation process of dough with different hydration levels upon mixing and the response of dough rheology, the dynamic evolution of gluten protein was tracked and quantified at morphological, structural, and molecular levels. Both macroscopical and microscopic distribution images showed that partial and full hydration induced quick formation of a more compact gluten network compared with limited hydration. Gluten network in highly hydrated samples was more susceptible to the formation and collapse induced by mechanical force. SE-HPLC results indicated significant depolymerization of glutenin macropolymer (GMP) in fully and partially hydrated samples. Sufficient mixing was accompanied by the increase of ionic and hydrogen bonds, while excessive mixing increased exposure of free -SH. Higher hydration level induced more ordered secondary structure. Correlation and principal component analysis revealed the patterns and dynamics of gluten evolution during dough formation with different hydration levels, and their contribution to the changes in dough modulus.

Identifying key factors and strategies for reducing oil content in fried instant noodles

Fried instant noodles have become a popular instant food in recent years, favored by consumers for their unique flavor and taste. Unfortunately, the oil content of instant noodles is generally high, so the rise of fat-related diseases poses a major health issue. From the perspective of the cost of instant noodle manufacturers and the health of consumers, it is of great significance to reduce the oil content of instant noodles. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of the main factors, such as raw materials and production processes, affecting oil content in instant noodles in order to suggest specific strategies to reduce the oil content in the end product. From the literature reviewed, adding acetylated potato starch/carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, or preharvest-dropped apple powder in the noodle formulation could be a better choice to reduce oil uptake by 5%-20%. Instant noodles with lower oil content can be produced using novel alternative frying technologies, including microwave and vacuum frying. The proper management of the production processes and the implementation of enhancement strategies may result in a reduction of oil content in the end product.