From Grain to Gut Health: Ragi Milk Extraction and Probiotic Product Development

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize ragi milk extraction and develop probiotic-rich dairy alternatives at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. Ragi grains were pre-treated through soaking, germination, and drying to enhance milk extraction efficiency. Probiotic products, including ragi curd, ice cream, and ambli, were formulated and evaluated using sensory and nutritional analyses. The physical properties of ragi, such as uniform size, high density, and sphericity, underscored its suitability for food processing. Proximate analysis showed that ragi grains, compared to ragi malt, had lower moisture and higher fat and fibre content, enhancing storage stability. Sensory evaluations indicated that ragi curd was well-received, while ragi ice cream and one version of ragi ambli were particularly favoured for taste and overall acceptability. This research contributes to the development of nutritious, sustainable plant-based dairy alternatives, promoting millet consumption.