Rice bran as a substitute for soy protein and erythorbate in chicken nuggets

Rice bran is a byproduct with high biological value protein, fiber and phytic acid content. The nutritional and technological properties of rice bran have been highlighted and are attractive for food application. This research aimed at replacing soy protein (SP) and sodium erythorbate (SE) by defatted rice bran (DRB) in chicken nuggets. Three formulations were prepared: T1 with SP and SE; T2 with SP and without SE; and T3 with total SP and SE replacement by DRB. Lipid stability was evaluated by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) on storage days 0, 30, and 60 (-18 °C). Physico-chemical and microbiological parameters were also evaluated. Color, aroma, flavor, texture acceptance, and overall impression was evaluated using a 9-point hedonic scale for 60 days of storage. T3 presented lipid stability comparable to T1 in all intervals evaluated reinforcing the antioxidant potential of DRB. However, T2 showed the lowest lipid stability due to the absence of antioxidants, presenting rancid aroma and flavor not allowing for its sensorial evaluation. Physico-chemical and microbiological parameters were either not influenced or positively influenced by DRB addition. For all attributes, T3 and T1 presented similar acceptance sensory means, with > 72.4% acceptability index. DRB is a rice byproduct potentially suitable for its use by the meat industry.