Development and Sensorial Acceptability of Nutrient Dense Date and Seed Balls Incorporated with Citrus Peel Powder

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition that affects women's reproductive and metabolic health. The utilisation of functional foods high in fibre, antioxidants, and essential nutrients has been demonstrated to help manage symptoms. This study involves producing nutrient-dense snack balls with date paste, seeds (flax, pumpkin, sunflower), and citrus peel powder. The use of citrus peel not only improves nutritional characteristics, but it also encourages sustainable food practices by reusing fruit waste. Orange peel powder was added in different amounts to the formulations (0, 5, 10, and 15%). Among other treatments, the 10% treatment (T₂) scored significantly higher (P<0.05) for taste, colour, aroma, appearance, and texture in sensory evaluation. This treatment received further analysis to determine quality attributes. It had a moisture content of 20.52±0.07%, fiber 5.30±0.03%, protein 3.0±0.04%, fat 2.00±0.04%, carbohydrate 67.2±3.84%, and ash 1.98±0.04%. pH (6.01±0.02) indicated product stability and safety. Antioxidant activity (27.44±0.07%) and total phenolic content (9.24±0.06 mg GAE/100 g) indicated the existence of bioactive chemicals in orange peel and seeds. Synthetic ingredients were avoided, preserving the natural sweetness and smooth texture.These seed and fruit-based snack balls present a viable clean-label solution that addresses current nutritional demands, consumer preferences for natural ingredients, and environmentally sustainable food innovation.