Exploring the Potential of Shiny Bush (Peperomia pellucida L.) in the Development of Nutrient-Dense Ice Cream
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.224Keywords:
Aqueous Extract, Functional Product, Fortified Ice Cream, Nutrient-Dense Ice Cream, Shiny Bush (Peperomia pellucida)Abstract
Underutilized wild greens like Shiny bush (Peperomia pellucida) hold untapped nutritional potential to combat malnutrition through innovative functional foods, yet their optimal integration into consumer-preferred frozen desserts remains underexplored. This descriptive-experimental study, integrated with Project Development Method, formulated four nutrient-dense ice cream variants using varying levels of P. pellucida aqueous extract. Proximate analysis (AOAC standards) assessed crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, moisture, and ash, while 75 panelists evaluated sensory attributes through a validated 9-point hedonic scale. Cost-benefit analysis determined return on investment (ROI), with Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials developed for community nutrition education. Formulation 4 (F4) excelled nutritionally with highest crude protein (3.44%) and fiber (0.90%), alongside lowest moisture (61.72%), but Formulation 2 (F2) achieved superior sensory acceptance ("like extremely" for texture, creaminess, and overall liking), driven by optimal fat-moisture balance enhancing microstructure stability and mouthfeel. Inferential statistics confirmed texture as the primary preference driver, with moderate aroma/taste differences, all formulations met economic viability (positive ROI), favoring F2 for its sensory-cost trade-off. These patterns align with fortified ice cream literature emphasizing optimization over nutrient maximization. Findings validate P. pellucida as a viable functional ingredient, balancing nutrition and palatability without compromising dairy-like quality. F2 emerges as the lead formulation for commercialization, supporting networks for malnutrition interventions. Accompanying IEC materials bridge research to practice, promoting dietary diversification via evidence-based, culturally attuned education for sustained community health impact.
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