Fortification Of Vitamin C In Synbiotic Drink Using Dragon Fruit

Abstract

In today's health-conscious era, consumers are increasingly drawn to traditional and functional foods that offer improved nutrition and well-being. Functional foods, at their core, revolve around the integration of probiotics, which play a pivotal role in enhancing immune function, cognitive well-being, and overall health. This study delves into the exciting realm of crafting synbiotic beverages using a blend of ragi and dragon fruit. It embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the nutritional, physicochemical, and microbiological attributes of these synbiotic concoctions, employing a diverse array of analytical techniques. Intriguingly, the sensory evaluation conducted unveiled a remarkable consumer preference, earning a commendable 7 on a 9-point hedonic scale. The principal component analysis showed significant variations in the synbiotic drink based on the sensory properties. A standardized technique study illuminated that the zenith of microbial growth materialized within 72 hours, with the onset of organism disintegration taking place after 96 hours. Collectively, the holistic analysis firmly substantiates the suitability of the recommended synbiotic beverage featuring ragi and dragon fruit for fostering gut health, marking a promising development in the realm of functional foods.