Abstract

VILCHEZ TUPAC, Luz M., GUEVARA PEREZ, Américo and ENCINA ZELADA, Christian R. Influence of particle size, moisture and temperature on gelatinization degree during the extrusion of maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp). Rev. Soc. Quím. Perú, Apr./Jun. 2012, vol.78, no.2, p.126-137. ISSN 1810-634X.

The maca collected in La Meseta del Bombon - Junin, was analized, so, the physicochemical composition (percentage in dry base) was: protein 14,61; fat 0,9, fiber 5,85, ash 4,97 and carbohydrates 79,53. There have been 20 treatments of maca extruded, and the best result has been obtained when we work with: particle size of maca from 0,17 to 0,20 cm, moisture 12%, extrusion temperature 100°C, maintaining screw rotation speed of 254 r.p.m. (low speed) and a die with 2 holes of 3mm at the end of the extruder, obtaining 86,93% gelatinization degree. The statistical evaluation showed the significance influence of particle size, moisture and temperature in the gelatinization degree along the extrusion process. The physicochemical composition of the maca extruded (percentage in dry base) was: protein 13,43, fat 0,28, fiber 5,64, ash 5,36 and carbohiydrates 80,93.

Keywords: Maca; Lepidium meyenii Walp; extrusion; granulometry; gelatinization.