Innovative application of inulin-gel suspension in poultry sausages: Technological impact and nutritional enhancement

Consumer demand for healthier foods has led the industry to look for alternatives to reduce high-fat levels. Dietary fibers such as inulin have emerged as promising substitutes for fat, increasing nutritional value and reducing fat absorption. The aim of this research was to formulate chicken cooked sausages in which the fat was replaced by inulin suspension at different levels. Four groups of sausages participated in the experiment: group K without fat replacement and groups 50%IN, 75%IN, and 100%IN with 50%, 75%, and 100% fat replacement, respectively. The results show a significantly higher process and cooking loss in the experimental groups compared to group K (p<0.05). Groups K and 50%IN had significantly better emulsion stability (p<0.05). Increasing inulin content significantly affected color characteristics, including L* (lightness), a* (redness), and b* (yellowness) (p<0.05). The experimental groups of sausages had a lighter color. By reducing fat, the caloric value of sausages decreased significantly and differed between groups (p<0.01). Inulin can be used to produce cooked sausages with reduced fat content and optimal physical and chemical properties. In addition to the reduced energy value, this meat product also has good nutritional characteristics.