Development of red pepper-containing dulce de leche and evaluation of its physico-chemical and sensorial characteristics, and ascorbic acid stability

Abstract

The dulce de leche or milk candy is a food widely consumed in Brazil, which shows typical characteristics of taste, color, flavor and texture. The lady-finger red pepper is regularly present on the Brazilian people table as this product contains a pungent flavor favoring various spices; and it is also rich in ascorbic acid (vitamin C) which is an excellent antioxidant. This study aimed at developing a dulce de leche containing lady-finger red pepper, and to determine the composition of the product. Also, the ascorbic acid contents were quantified in products stored for different periods (0, 30 and 60 days). The product acceptance by consumers on the sensory characteristics was evaluated by means of hedonic scale for color, aroma, flavor and texture attributes. The composition of the product was in accordance with the legislation in force, and the ascorbic acid contents were practically stable during the storage, and the sensory analyses indicated that the red pepper-containing dulce de leche was well accepted.