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| Afifa Husna, STP., M.TP., M.Sc, a lecturer in Food Technology at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) (Photo: Special) |
Processed foods such as nuggets and sausages have become a convenient and delicious option for many people. However, as convenient and delicious as they are, what are their nutritional contents? Afifa Husna, STP., M.TP., M.Sc, a lecturer in Food Technology at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), said that some of the ingredients are possibly damaged during the production process of these processed foods.
"Vitamins that are not heat-resistant can be damaged, although only by a small amount. However, even though it is damaged, it does not mean that it cannot be digested. In fact, when the nutrients are damaged, the digestibility will be higher," said the lecturer known as Ifa.
She explained that high heat in the nuget-making process can cause protein denaturation in the meat. It causes the protein structure of the meat to lose its original shape and function. Although it affects some of the sensory and nutritional properties of the meat, the denaturation process makes nuggets and sausages have a solid texture, making them easier to process into the desired forms.
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"Another positive impact of denaturation in processed nuget products is that the finished product is more durable against physical and chemical changes. This includes the process of storage or further processing. It provides a stronger and more unique flavor and aroma, assists in the mixing of ingredients, and provides more consistent results. The other function is to help kill bacteria and microorganisms that may be found in raw meat," she added.
Although there are some benefits, Ifa emphasizes that it is important to note that protein denaturation can also affect some of the nutrients in meat and processed products. Thus, these types of processed foods should not be depended on as the only source of nutritional value. As a wise consumer, it is important to read labels carefully to know the amount of consumption according to your body's needs.
"Observing the amount of nutrients available in processed products can help us adjust the nutritional needs in the body, and maintain a balanced diet," she concluded. (Put/Rev/Wil)
