Kinetic modelling of texture development in potato cubes (Solanum tuberosum L.), green gram whole (Vigna radiate L.) and red gram splits (Cajanus cajan L.)

Texture is one of the most important quality parameter, which influences the acceptability of food products. The kinetics of texture development which was evaluated using a Stevens-LFRA Texture Analyzer in terms load in grams, has been studied over a temperature range of 50-120 degrees C (isothermal process), and also during normal open pan cooking, pressure-cooking and a cooking in a newly developed and patented fuel-efficient 'EcoCooker' (non-isothermal heating process). The texture development followed first order kinetics in potato cubes, whole green gram and red gram splits, the food samples used in this study. A mathematical model was developed using the rate constants of texture development at fixed temperatures and the time-temperature profile of the processing method. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.