Determination of the physical, chemical and antinutritional properties of firik and einkorn bulgur

Abstract

Background and Objectives Hulled wheat varieties and immature grains are seen as interesting raw materials in the production of grain‐based products. More research is needed on the quality, functional and nutritional properties of einkorn and immature wheat products, which are processed and consumed by many societies under different names. This study was carried out to evaluate the physical and nutritional properties of einkorn bulgur and firik (bulgur produced from immature wheat) samples sold in the market. Findings The firik samples had higher ash, fat and free, bound and total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and lower protein content than einkorn bulgur. Low phytic acid content of firik obtained from immature wheat was found to be remarkable. The total yellow pigment, Ca and Mg contents were found to be 5.4, 1.3, and 1.3 times higher in firik samples than in einkorn bulgur. The weight increase value obtained as a result of the cooking test was found to be lower in firik samples compared to einkorn bulgur. Conclusions Both types of bulgur showed superior characteristics in terms of nutritional value and functional properties. Significance and Novelty It has been determined that firik and einkorn bulgur are two important products in terms of healthy nutrition with their functional components. It is an introductory study in terms of expanding the usage area of valuable ancient wheat and immature durum wheat and processing it into new products.