The Effect of the Addition of Selected Fruit Pomace Powders and Pectin as Carrier Agents on the Nutritional Value of Freeze-Dried Snacks

This study was conducted to analyze the effect of the addition of powdered apple and blackcurrant pomace on the nutritional value, bioaccessibility of polyphenols, and antioxidant activity of freeze-dried fruit and vegetable snacks in comparison to low-methoxyl pectin as a traditional carrier agent. We evaluated sugars, protein, fat, ash, and total dietary fiber contents, as well as content and potential bioaccessibility of polyphenols and antiradical properties. In comparison to snacks with pectin, those with apple pomace powder were richer in carbohydrates and sugars, while snacks with blackcurrant pomace featured significantly higher (p <= 0.05) protein, ash, and fat contents. The material with pectin had the highest content of total dietary fiber. The addition of blackcurrant pomace powder increased the content of potentially bioaccessible polyphenols and enhanced the antiradical properties of the products. The blackcurrant pomace exhibited a more beneficial effect on the nutritional value of the freeze-dried snacks than other carrier agents applied. Nonetheless, further research is needed to determine the effect of the addition of various amounts of pomace powders on some crucial properties, such as dietary fiber and bioactive compounds contents, as well as physicochemical characteristics.