Extrusion cooking process for amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus L.)

Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus L.) extrusion was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). Response (dependent) variables were: expansion ratio, shearing strength, and sensory texture acceptability. Independent variables were processing temperature and feed moisture. All other process variables (screw speed, screw compression ratio, feed speed, and die diameter) were kept constant (200 rpm, 70 g.min(-1), and 3 mm, respectively). The most expanded products also had the best texture and were obtained at 150 degreesC and 15% moisture. These conditions resulted in greater expansion, greater shearing force of extrudates, greater extrudate surface area per unit weight, and reduced shearing stress at maximum shearing force. This study showed that under conditions that induced the maximum expansion ratio, extrusion produced a highly acceptable snack product based on amaranth flour.