Abstract

This study evaluates the nutrient content and sensory attributes of soymilk fortified with carrot powder. Carrots, soybeans, sugar and flavourings were bought from local retailers in Ogige main market, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. The fresh carrots were washed, scrapped, trimmed, sliced, sundried, grinded, packaged and stored in a labeled polythene bag. The soybean seeds were sorted, cleaned, washed, soaked for 18 h, drained and blanched for 25 min at 89°C. The blanched beans were pulverized with hot water; the paste formed was diluted with water at 1:5 and then sieved to get the soymilk. The soymilk was cooked for 23 min at 87°C. Flavor agents and sugar were added and 20 g each of carrot powder was added to 500 and 600 ml of soymilk, respectively. The proximate composition, vitamin and mineral contents of the samples were determined using standard methods. Sensory attributes were also evaluated. The result reveals that the proximate composition, vitamin and mineral contents of the fortified soymilk (CS₂ and CS₃) were higher than the plain soymilk (CS₁). Sensory evaluation of soymilk indicated that Sample CS₁ was preferred to CS₃, while CS₂ was least preferred. Carrot powder addition to soymilk improved its micronutrients content.

Key words: Chemical, sensory, evaluation, soymilk, carrot powder, fortified.