The endosperm microstructure, physical, thermal properties and specific milling energy of spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta) grain and flour.

Previous research has shown that the endosperm microstructure and physical properties of grain have significance in grain processing and in the development of processing machines. The aim of our study was to analyze the endosperm microstructure, physical, thermal properties, and specific milling energy of organic spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta) grain and flour. Image analysis combined with fractal analysis was used to describe the microstructural differences of the endosperm of spelt grain. The endosperm morphology of spelt kernels was monofractal, isotropic, and complex. A higher proportion of Type-A starch granules resulted in an increased proportion of voids and interphase boundaries in the endosperm. Changes in the fractal dimension were correlated with kernel hardness, specific milling energy, the particle size distribution of flour, and the starch damage rate. Spelt cultivars varied in size and shape of the kernels. Kernel hardness was a property that differentiated specific milling energy, particle size distribution of flour, and starch damage rate. Fractal analysis may be considered as a useful tool for evaluating milling processes in the future.

Evaluation of physicochemical properties, antioxidant potential and baking quality of grain and flour of primitive rye (Secale cereale var. Multicaule).

The consumers interest in organic food and farmers' search for cultivars with increased usefulness for organic farming have contributed to the revival of ancient cereal species and their launch onto the food market. In view of the above, the aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical properties, antioxidant potential and baking quality of grain and flour of primitive rye (Secale cereale var. Multicaule Polish: Krzyca), and to compare these parameters with open-pollinated and hybrid cultivars of common rye. The following determinations were made: the morphological and mechanical properties of grain, milling energy and the protein, starch, ash and free phenolic content of the analyzed flours, their amylograph characteristics and antioxidant potential. It was found that primitive rye has shorter kernels, lower thousand-kernel weight and a higher contribution of redness in color compared with common rye. In primitive rye grain rupture force was determined at 68.9 N and rupture energy at 35.6 mJ. Flours made from primitive rye grain have a higher content of ash and free phenolic compounds, lower starch content and similar antioxidant potential relative to common rye flours. The results of the amylograph test revealed that primitive rye flours were characterized by high baking quality. The primitive rye flours can be alternative ingredients for bread making and provide health advantage such as higher content of phenolic compounds. However, further research is needed to analyze variations in the properties of primitive rye grain and flour resulting from changes in environmental and climatic conditions.

[Assessments of dietary patterns of children aged 10-12 in the city of Olsztyn]. / Ocena sposobu zywienia dzieci w wieku 10-12 lat na terenie miasta Olsztyna.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The aim of the research was to evaluate the dietary patterns of children aged 10-12 in the city of Olsztyn. The research involved a group of 288 children (144 boys and 144 girls) aged 10-12, living in the city of Olsztyn. Evaluation of dietary patterns was carried out on the basis of individual dietary interviews concerning food intake over the past 24h, followed by determination of energy and nutritional values of the daily diet as well as the content of basic nutrients, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, microelements and vitamins. RESULTS: The research demonstrated that although the amount of consumed meals was correct, they did not cover the energy requirements of the examined children (in the case of boys, the average energy value of the daily diet was 1960,92 kcal, and for girls it was 1627,7 kcal) and were too poor in protein and carbohydrates. Moreover, it was found that the calcium intake norms were met at the level of approximately 50% of the average demand and an excessively low content of fibre were found in the daily diet. CONCLUSIONS: The study results showed the mistakes made by the studied population group in the method of nutrition, including daily diet energy value (deficiencies), its structure and the quality of the meals.