Technological characteristics and nutritional value of powdered functional mixes

¹ Department of Catering and nutrition, University of food technologies, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
² Department of Biotechnology, University of food technologies, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria

^* Corresponding author: popova_aneta@uft-plovdiv.bg

Abstract

Commercially available functional blends are products that combine various ingredients to provide specific health benefits. They can be used in the food industry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other fields. These mixes are usually in powdered form, making them easy to mix into drinks or incorporate into recipes. The ingredients in powdered functional mixes can vary widely depending on the specific product and its purpose. They often combine a range of vitamins, minerals, herbs, plant extracts and other bioactive compounds in a convenient form. The nutritional value of powdered functional mixes can vary depending on the specific ingredients included. They can contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, calcium. Some mixes may also include protein, fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, among others. The present study aims at systematizing the commercially available combinations by highlighting their potential health benefits as well as their nutritional value. In addition, physico-chemical indicators (incl. colour characteristics, water activity, solubility, water-holding capacity, moisture and ash content) of selected functional mixtures and their most common applications will also be presented. Differences in all studied parameters have been established, i.e. aw ranging from 0.38 to 0.54 and vitamin C content (mg %) – from 0.36 to 12.25.