Effect of Different Binders on the Physico-Chemical, Textural, Histological, and Sensory Qualities of Retort Pouched Buffalo Meat Nuggets

The functional properties of 4 binders, namely corn starch, wheat semolina, wheat flour, and tapioca starches, were evaluated to improve the quality of buffalo meat nuggets processed in retort pouches at F₀ 12.13. Incorporation of corn starch in buffalo meat nuggets produced more stable emulsion than other binders used. Product yield, drip loss, and pH did not vary significantly between the products with different binders. Shear force value was significantly higher for product with corn starch (0.42 ± 0.0 Kg/cm³) followed by refined wheat flour (0.36 ± 0.010 Kg/cm³), tapioca starch (0.32 ± 0.010 Kg/cm³), and wheat semolina (0.32 ± 0.010 Kg/cm³). Type of binder used had no significant effect on frying loss, moisture, and protein content of the product. However, fat content was higher in products with corn starch when compared to products with other binders. Texture profile indicated that products made with corn starch (22.17 ± 2.55 N) and refined wheat flour (21.50 ± 0.75 N) contributed firmer texture to the product. Corn starch contributed greater chewiness (83.8 ± 12.51) to the products resulting in higher sensory scores for texture and overall acceptability. Products containing corn starch showed higher sensory scores for all attributes in comparison to products with other binders. Panelists preferred products containing different binders in the order of corn starch (7.23 ± 0.09) > refined wheat flour (6.48 ± 0.13) > tapioca starch (6.45 ± 0.14) > wheat semolina (6.35 ± 0.13) based on sensory scores. Histological studies indicated that products with corn starch showed dense protein matrix, uniform fat globules, and less number of vacuoles when compared to products made with other binders. The results indicated that corn flour is the better cereal binder for developing buffalo meat nuggets when compared to all other binders based on physico-chemical and sensory attributes.