Effect of Germination on Nutritive Value and Baking Properties of Dry Peas, Lentils, and Faba Beans

Dry yellow peas, lentils, and faba beans were germinated under laboratory conditions. Periodic rinsing with water at 2‐hr intervals was effective in controlling microbial growth. Marked increase in ascorbic acid of the legumes was observed during germination. Amino acid contents did not change appreciably after 4day germination. Wheat flour blends containing ungerminated and germinated legume flours at 5, 10, and 15% levels were used in baking studies. Addition of 15% legume flours to bread resulted in only small deleterious effects on loaf volume, crumb grain, and flavor. Germination adversely affected the baking properties of peas and lentils, but not faba beans. Blanching of the germinated peas further impaired its baking properties.