Physicochemical and functional properties of full fat and defatted cashew kernel flours

Full fat and defatted cashew kernel flours were prepared and analysed for their physicochemical and functional properties. There were significant increase in protein and carbohydrate contents of the flour as a result of defatting. The defatted flour possessed higher Ca, P, Na and K contents. It had improved gel strength, foaming and emulsion properties. Foam capacity for the full fat and defatted flours increased from 42% to 50% and 55% to 57% with increased NaCl concentration up to 0.25 and 0.05  m , respectively. The foam capacity and stability of the flours were also pH dependent. The emulsion activity and stability of both flours decreased with increasing NaCl concentration. Minimum and maximum protein solubility were at pH 4 and 8, respectively for the full fat and defatted flours. These results suggest that defatted cashew flour may have potential application as a functional ingredient and as a supplement in foods.