Development of a Low Calorie Ready-to-Serve Beverage from Hibiscus cannabinus L

Abstract

Hibiscus cannabinus, a leafy vegetable is known for rich in fibre, minerals with high acidity. It is also known to be one of the sources of an antiobese factor (hydroxycitric acid). A low-calorie ready-to-serve (RTS) beverage was developed from H. cannabinus leaves using a natural sweetener (steviol glycoside). The beverage was prepared using the leaf aqueous extract, adjusting the acidity, and followed by the addition of a natural sweetener, steviol glycoside. The beverage was evaluated for changes in physicochemical and sensory parameters during a storage period of six months. The product was found to be acceptable for four months and scored very good (6.56) for overall quality after six months. A reduction in sweetness attribute was found when compared to control (8.0). The product was found to be shelf-stable with no microbial growth during storage. Significant decrease in steviol glycoside content (16.63%) and hydroxycitric acid content (54.4%) was observed after the end of storage. The RTS beverage from Hibiscus leaves with functional ingredients will ensure health and wellness of consumers.