Effects of extrusion conditions on secondary extrusion variables and physical properties of fish, rice-based snacks

A formulation containing rice flour, fish powder, menhaden oil and vitamin E was extruded at a feed rate of 10 kg/h using a co-rotating twin-screw extruder. Primary extrusion (independent) variables were temperature (125-145 °C), screw speed (150-300 rpm) and feed moisture (19-23 g/100 g db). Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to study the effects of extrusion conditions on secondary extrusion variables (product temperature, pressure at the die, motor torque, specific mechanical energy input and mean residence time) and physical properties of the extrudates. Second-order polynomial models were computed and used to generate contour plots. Increasing feed moisture and screw speed decreased pressure at the die. Increased screw speed increased product temperature at the die but increased feed moisture lowered it. Increased barrel temperature, feed moisture and screw speed decreased motor torque. Increased screw speed increased specific mechanical energy, while increased feed moisture reduced it. Longer mean residence times were observed at lower screw speeds. Product density increased as feed moisture increased, but decreased with screw speed. Increased feed moisture decreased radial expansion.