Effect of High-Quality Cassava Flour Inclusion on the Profitability and Sensory Acceptability of Pastry Products

Abstract

The demand for wheat flour in Nigeria is expected to rise due to the increasing consumption of pastries. A study was conducted to assess the profitability and sensory qualities of doughnuts, cookies, and chin chin made from wheat and high-quality cassava flour (HQCF). HQCF was mixed with wheat flour in varying ratios (5, 10, and 15%), with 100% wheat flour as the positive control and HQCF as the negative control. Profitability was calculated using a standard method, while sensory acceptability was evaluated by fifteen (15) panelists using a structured questionnaire. The results showed that all composite products made from wheat and HQCF are profitable. The cookies made with 5%, 10%, and 15% HQCF generated profits of 143%, 163%, and 297%, respectively. The doughnuts made with 5%, 10%, and 15% HQCF yielded profits of 24.96%, 40.37%, and 47.98%, respectively. The chin-chin made with 5%, 10%, and 15% HQCF produced profits of 5.03%, 17.94%, and 22.08%. Sensory evaluation showed that cookies, chin-chin, and doughnuts made with 5-15% HQCF were similar in most sensory attributes, while those made with 100% wheat flour and 100% HQCF were different. Thus, the 5% HQCF composite cookies, chin-chin, and doughnuts may offer both profitability and acceptability, supporting Nigeria's cassava inclusion policy and decreasing import expenses.