Evaluation of Physicochemical, Microbiological and Sensory Properties of Croissants Fortified with Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina)

The major physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of croissants enriched with Spirulina at concentrations ranging between 0.5 and 1.5% were evaluated. The results showed that the use of A. platensis biomass for the production of croissants improved the textural and organoleptic properties of the final products. Spirulina fortification also increased the protein and moisture levels and water-holding capacity, whereas it decreased the crumb firmness and lightness of croissants. Optimum sensory results were obtained when Spirulina was applied at a rate of 1%. Besides these benefits, the A. platensis biomass enhanced the levels of biologically active substances (i.e. essential amino acids, chlorophyll, phycocyanin, carotenoids, minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids) in croissant samples. To our knowledge, this is the first scientific study on Spirulina-fortified croissants.