Digestion and oral comfort of cheese developed to meet the sensory and nutritional needs of the elderly
Résumé
During aging, the sensory capacities and the mastication efficacy decrease, limiting both qualitatively
and quantitatively the food intake of the elderly. However, protein and calcium requirements
increase with age. In this context, the formulation of foods adapted to the nutritional and sensory
needs of the elderly is a challenge for the next years.
Objective
The main objective of this work was to develop a series of cheeses of variable texture made of whey
proteins and enriched with different sources of calcium and test their performances on the oral comfort
of elderly people, the bioavailability of amino acids and the calcium bioaccessibility.
Methodology
The model cheeses developed had the same composition (24% of proteins including 23% of whey
proteins, and 20% of lipids) and the different textures were generated by modulating the manufacturing
process. Sensory analysis were performed on a panel of people over 65, and in vitro digestion
performed using the INFOGEST model whereas in vivo digestion experiments were conducted on
a conventional pig model.
Main findings
The results of the digestion studies highlighted the relevance of integrating whey proteins as a major
protein source in dairy products, in order to maximize the bioavailability of essential amino acids.
In addition, the bioaccessibility of calcium was mainly related to intra-gastric and intraintestinal pH,
rather than to the initial chemical form of its source of enrichment. Finally, the sensory study showed
that only the textures perceived as “dry” were linked to a significant decrease in the oral comfort of
the elderly.
Conclusion
This work highlights the opportunity to develop sensory and nutritionally adapted dairy products for
the elderly. Based on this work, it would be interesting to carry out clinical studies to know the physiological
impact of these products on the prevention of osteoporosis and sarcopenia.
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