Fermentation of legumes with Rhizopus oligosporus: effect on physicochemical, functional and microstructural properties

The present study investigated the effect of fermentation by Rhizopus oligosporus on the nutritional, functional, colour and microstructural properties of some commonly consumed legumes, that is, chickpea (kabuli and desi), pigeon pea and soybean. Results revealed a substantial (P < 0.05) increment in the protein (5-14%) and ash (5-15%) contents as well as those of essential (13-21%) and non-essential (3-15%) amino acids with fermentation. Fatty acid composition showed the varied concentrations of polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids in fermented legumes. Further, fermentation significantly (P < 0.05) modified the functional and colour properties of legumes. The alteration in the structural conformation of legumes upon fermentation was observed with scanning electron microscopy which confirmed the enzymatic action on the proteins, fibres and lipid bodies. The results concluded that fermentation of these legumes could be a potential approach in developing the novel functional foods to address the concerns of food and nutrition securities.