Effects of Replacing Butter with SPAN80-Tailored Soywax/Rice Bran Oil Oleogel in Food Product: A Study on Whole Wheat Cookies
Somali Dhal, Deblu Sahu, Haladhar Behera, Doman Kim, Maciej Jarzębski, Kunal Pal
Abstract
In response to the increasing demand for healthier and sustainable solid fat alternatives, this research explores a novel approach to formulating cookies by investigating the effects of replacing traditional butter with emulsifier-laden oleogels. The current study examined the effect of replacing butter with SPAN80-tailored soywax/rice bran oil-based oleogels in whole wheat cookies. Butter was replaced with increasing amounts of oleogel (up to 100%). Cookie dough and baked cookies were analyzed to study the effect of oleogels on the products. Lower moisture content and disrupted protein networks were observed with higher oleogel content. Interestingly, a balanced protein structure was found at 50% oleogel. Dough spreadability increased while the stickiness remained similar. Cookies with >50% oleogel showed altered appearance and physical properties. However, sensory evaluation indicated good acceptability for all cookies. This suggests emulsifier-laden oleogels could be a viable butter substitute while maintaining cookie quality.