Extrusion effects on the starch and fibre composition of Canadian pulses

Pulses are important as alternative sources of protein and carbohydrates for the animal industry and, thus, require accurate evaluation of their nutrient profile during processing. Extrusion is a thermal processing of ingredients to induce physiochemical changes that convert them into more valuable products. The current study evaluated the effects of extrusion on the starch and fibre components of Amarillo peas, Dun peas, chickpeas, faba beans, lentils, and soybean meal (SBM). Pulses were extruded at 18% or 22% moisture and 110, 130, or 150 degrees C. Extrusion decreased (P < 0.05) the starch content in Amarillo and Dun peas but increased (P < 0.05) the same in faba beans, lentils, and SBM when compared with their whole counterparts. There was no difference in the total dietary fibre content of whole and extruded Amarillo peas, Dun peas, chickpeas, and SBM. Extrusion increased (P < 0.05) the soluble dietary fibre (SDF) content of all pulses and SBM except chickpeas. Extrusion increased (P < 0.05) for all fibre types in faba beans. Results indicate that extrusion increased the starch and SDF content of most pulses but had negative or no effects on other fibre components in all pulses except faba beans.