Familiarization with White Whole Wheat Improves Acceptability of Whole Grain-Based Baked Products Made with White Whole Wheat Among College Students

Research corroborates that high whole grain intake is associated with lower risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Unfamiliarity with, and negative sensory appeal of whole grains limit voluntary food choices to increase their consumption. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of familiarization with white whole wheat, to improve college students’ acceptability of shortened cakes, muffins, and yeast breads made with white whole wheat flour (WWWF). All-purpose flour (APF) was replaced with WWWF in standardized recipes, and the products scored by 102 college students. Independent t-test was used to analyze if sensory scores for appearance, taste, texture, and overall acceptability between APF and WWWF products were statistically significant. Before familiarization with WWWF, all three APF products scored significantly higher than whole grain counterparts (P < .05). When participants were familiarized with health benefits and expected sensory profile of whole grain products, sensory scores for appearance, taste, and overall acceptability of WWWF products did not significantly differ from APF counterparts (P > .05). Familiarization significantly increased overall acceptability scores of WWWF products (P < .05). Familiarization also increased proportion of students willing to bake with WWWF. Results underscore that familiarization can improve acceptability of WWWF in baked products and students’ willingness to incorporate it in baking, with potential to stimulate dietary modifications.