Quality, microstructure, biochemical and immunochemical characteristics of hypoallergenic pasta.

Celiac disease is an immune-mediated enteropathy, characterized by lifelong intolerance to gluten in genetically
susceptible individuals. This study aims to develop hypoallergenic pasta using blends of Triticum durum
semolina, 40% of other non-wheat flours and additives. Formulated pasta samples were evaluated for product
quality characteristics and also subjected to biochemical analysis. Results showed that cooking loss ranged
from 6.9% to 7.4%, which were within the acceptable range of 8%. Color change was low and in vitro protein
digestibility of the pasta was found to be insignificant. Pasting characteristics of the hypoallergenic flour
showed the increased peak viscosity and decreased gelatinization temperature. The scanning electron
microscopy results demonstrated less-affected microstructure of gluten network. Texture profile analysis
and descriptive sensory analysis revealed that optimized hypoallergenic pasta with xanthan gum as additive
was acceptable and comparable with control. SDS-PAGE pattern showed distinct protein profile and
decreased intensity, which was supported by Dot-Blot. In conclusion, the hypoallergenic pasta prepared
by replacing T durum flour by 40% of other non-gluten flours could be useful for celiac patients because of
its low antigenic activity.