Crust and crumb characteristics of gluten free breads Original Research Article

Gluten free breads often have poor crust and crumb characteristics and the current study was conducted to help alleviate this problem. A commercial wheat starch (Codex Alimentarius) gluten free flour was supplemented with seven dairy powders (0%, 3%, 6%, 9% inclusion rates based on flour weight). Initially a fixed water level was used (trial 1) and the resulting batters were proofed and baked. The breads were tested 24 h after baking. Powder addition reduced loaf volume by circa 6% (P<0.001). Increasing the inclusion levels of the powders decreased loaf volume (P<0.001) with a decrease of 8% for the highest level. Powder addition generally decreased the crumb L*/b* (white/yellow) ratio. Crust L* values were significantly reduced. All of the powders increased crumb hardness (P<0.001) with the exception of demineralised whey powder. Ten and 20% additional water (trial 2) was added to the formulation and the resulting breads had higher volume, and a much softer crust and crumb texture. Sensory analysis revealed a preference for breads containing skim milk replacer, sodium caseinate and milk protein isolate.