Effect of goji berry incorporation on the texture, physicochemical, and sensory properties of wheat bread

The regular intake of Lycium barbarum (goji berry) is supposed to play an important role in the promotion of human health. Regarding, its incorporation into staple foods, including bread, seems to be effective. However, it requires the evaluation of dough behavior and final product quality. This study investigated the effect of goji berry incorporation at levels of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30% ww(-1) on the textural, physicochemical, and sensory properties of wheat bread. Results indicated a significant enhancement of water absorption and gelatinization temperature in composite flour via the inclusion of goji berry powder (p < 0.05). Using goji berry powder up to 20% ww(-1) has shown to obtain the structure able to restore gases through the baking process and provide enhancement in a specific volume at about 10%. Alongside, the hardness of composite bread decreased, and the optimal hardness was observed at formulations containing 20% w/w goji berry powder with a value equal to 1199.95 +/- 0.05 g, which is supposed to be induced by the higher specific volume and lower moisture content of bread samples. Moreover, color and sensory perception have been found to be significantly changed by goji berry substitution. Goji berry substitution up to 20% ww(-1) is found to be preferred by the consumer, and a drop in overall acceptability was observed at its higher inclusion. The technological characteristic changes induced by goji berry incorporation are induced by its gluten dilution impact. However, the gel-like structure formed by the high fiber content of goji berries compensates for this adverse impact up to 20% w/w substitution level.