Box–Behnken design based statistical modelling to study the effects of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) incorporation on nutritional standards of vegan snack product

The purpose of this research is to develop a Protein enriched Vegan snack product with high protein, low fat, high-fiber, and high fiber, which can boost the immune system. Adding Spirulina content to the snack food will increase the nutritional value of the food as Spirulina is one of the highest proteins containing organic foods in the world. Spirulina is well-known for its high protein content, which includes all the essential amino acids. Spirulina can be incorporated into snack foods to provide a plant-based protein source, making them suitable for people looking for protein-rich vegetarian or vegan snack options. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a product of enormous benefits. The potential of Spirulina can be easily observed when used with finger millet flour (Ragi) and gram flour to prepare an extruded product. In this study, we used a four-factor Box–Behnken design to design the experiments. Design Expert 13.0 performed a statistical analysis of the following responses: frying time, moisture content, ash content, protein content, and fat content in terms of the effect of independent variables on responses. The output data for all responses were examined, and were maximum at 90 days storage time with finger millet at 10 gm, gram flour at 90 gm, and Spirulina powder at 8%. With the help of a manually operated extruder, samples were fried in soybean oil for a particular time and stored in Low-density Polyethylene packaging for 90 days for a shelf-life study. Ultimately the addition of Spirulina and finger millet resulted in positive outcomes and can be further improvised at the industrial level.