Development of synbiotic added sucrose-free mango nectar as a potential substrate for Lactobacillus casei: Physicochemical characterisation and consumer acceptability during storage

The study was carried out to evaluate the viability of probiotic bacteria as well as physicochemical and sensory characteristics of synbiotic added sucrose-free mango nectar. The mango nectar samples were prepared incorporating different concentrations of inulin and stevia (0, 2 and 4% w/w) and stored for 45 days at 4 degrees C. The results indicated that the growth of Lactobacillus casei was strongly influenced by the beverage composition. Therefore, the addition of inulin and stevia had a positive effect on the viability of L. casei, especially with 2% w/w inulin or inulin in combination with stevia. However, bacterial viability reduced during storage. According to the results, pH and total soluble solid content of the samples decreased during storage; however, the viscosity values of mango nectars were elevated by the addition of inulin and stevia. Additionally, all beverages were considered a suitable medium to keep the L. casei survival above the minimum recommended value (10(6)-10(7) CFU mL(-1)) during storage. In general, it can be concluded that the sample containing 2% inulin and 2% stevia in combination provided the best viability of L. casei with acceptable physicochemical properties and sensory characteristics that could be introduced as synbiotic and low-calorie mango nectar.