Neuroprotective Properties of Fermented Malted Rice Obtained Under Different Processing Conditions

Two products fermented with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were obtained using malted rice (FR) and mashed malted rice (FMR). Peptide, phenolic acids, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) contents and neuroprotective activities were evaluated before and after simulated gastrointestinal digestion. GABA contents of fermented products were 45 and 51 mg 100 g−1, with a bioaccessibility of 51 and 45% for FR and FMR, respectively. Both fermented malted rice products exhibited inhibitory effects against tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase, and prolyl oligopeptidase, with FR demonstrating the highest inhibitory activity. The neuroprotective properties were increased after digestion and could potentially be attributed to bioactive peptides generated by germination, fermentation, and digestion, as well as free phenolic acids. These findings suggest that fermented malted rice possesses promising biofunctional properties and may serve as suitable dietary options for individuals with gluten and lactose intolerance, offering additional neuroprotective benefits.