The characteristics of beef patties containing different levels of fat and oat flour

Three concentrations of oat flour (OF), 0, 2 and 4% (w/w), were added to beef patties which had either 5, 10 or 20% fat levels. Raw and cooked patties were analysed for protein, fat, moisture, ash and pH. Patties were further evaluated for cooking characteristics, colour parameters (L*, a*, b*) and sensory properties. Moisture content decreased in raw patties as a result of the addition of OF but OF increased the moisture content of cooked patties. OF addition did not change the protein, fat and ash contents of either raw or cooked patties. Increasing fat concentration decreased cooking yield. OF improved the cooking characteristics of patties. Reducing the fat significantly decreased the lightness values of patties. Patties with OF had slightly higher b* values than control treatments. Increasing fat level increased juiciness, flavour and texture scores and 4% OF increased the juiciness scores, OF had no effect on other sensory properties.