Carbohydrate‐based fat replacers in the modification of the rheological, textural and sensory quality of yoghurt: comparative study of the utilisation of barley beta‐glucan, guar gum and inulin

Summary Barley beta‐glucan, partially hydrolysed guar gum and inulin were used in the processing of low‐fat yoghurts. The possible beneficial effects of carbohydrate fat replacers on the rheological, textural and sensory quality of low‐fat yoghurt‐based products were determined. Comparisons were made between the sample yoghurts made from a low‐fat milk base, and full‐fat and low‐fat yoghurt controls. The inclusion of the carbohydrate components reduced product syneresis and improved the texture and rheological properties of the low‐fat‐based products so that their quality characteristics were similar to yoghurt made with full‐fat milk. Both the type and also the amount of carbohydrate component altered product characteristics. Beta‐glucan addition at low level (0.5%) was effective in improving serum retention of the yoghurt and its viscoelastic nature ( G ′, G ′ and tan δ). In contrast, higher levels (above 2%) of inulin and guar gum were needed to exert significant improvements in the textural characteristics of yoghurt. Sensory analysis conducted on the samples illustrated that the inclusion of carbohydrate‐based fat replacers could be successfully utilised to mimic full‐fat products.