Physicochemical, Microbiological and Functional Properties of Camelina Meal Fermented in Solid-State Using Food Grade Aspergillus Fungi

Camelina meal (CAM) was fermented in solid-state using food grade Aspergillus fungi (A. sojae, A. ficuum and their co-cultures), and the physicochemical composition, microbiological and functional properties were investigated. SSF increased the starch contents but reduced (p < 0.05) the contents of soluble carbohydrate. The microbiological counts of the fermented meals were higher (p < 0.05) than that of the unfermented CAM. Phytic acid content reduced (p < 0.05) in the fermented meals. SSF reduced the protein molecular weight and colour attributes of CAM. The fermented camelina meals had increased (p < 0.05) bulk density and swelling capacity but reduced (p < 0.05) water absorption capacity. Thus, the study indicated that SSF with A. sojae, A. ficuum and their co-cultures influenced the physicochemical, microbiological and functional properties of CAM. There is potential for the development of value-added novel food and feed products from solid-state fermented camelina meal.