Roasting makhana (fox nuts) does more than enhance their flavor and crunchiness—it actually improves their protein quality and digestibility through several biochemical processes. Protein Structure Changes During Roasting When makhana is roasted, the heat causes structural changes to its proteins. Research from the Journal of Food Science shows that temperatures between 120-150°C (typical roasting temperatures) cause partial denaturation of proteins. This process unfolds the complex three-dimensional structure of proteins, exposing previously hidden amino acid chains. This unfolding effect makes the proteins more accessible to digestive enzymes. A study in Food Chemistry demonstrated that roasted makhana had 18-24% higher protein digestibility compared to raw samples. Maillard Reaction Benefits During roasting, the Maillard reaction occurs—a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives roasted foods their characteristic flavor and aroma. While this reactio...
Health Fitness Food
Transforming Lives Through Awareness