Application of chokeberry pomace as pectin substitute in nonconventional freeze-dried snacks: physicochemical characteristics of the products

The objective of the study was the development of nonconventional restructured freeze-dried multicomponent snacks obtained with the addition of chokeberry pomace powder (CP) supported by calcium ions (0, 0.01 and 0.05%). The study consisted of the evaluation of the impact of various quantities (1, 3 and 5%) of dried chokeberry pomace powder on selected physicochemical characteristics compared to snacks structured by pectin (0.5 and 1.5%). The results showed that the application of CP caused a significant reduction in the snacks’ water content and activity, which could contribute to enhanced stability. Hygroscopic properties and porosity also decreased with increasing quantity of CP, which was a consequence of structural changes in the material. The CP addition elevated the hardness of the snacks, however the effect was notably lower than after pectin incorporation. The use of the CP promoted the bioactive compound content and antioxidant activity of the freeze-dried snack. Total phenolic and anthocyanin contents elevated with the increasing quantity of CP, also followed by antioxidant activity improvement. The introduction of anthocyanins, which are red colorants, also caused notable changes in the color of the products. Overall, the application of chokeberry pomace resulted in obtaining an innovative snack option characterized by fortified bioactive compounds content and antioxidant activity. However, more research is needed to optimize also nutritional characteristics of the products.