Production of ß-glucan enriched flour from waxy barley

Starch (total, amylose and amylopectin), beta-glucans (total, soluble and insoluble) and pasting properties of waxy and normal barley genotypes were assessed. Waxy genotypes showed higher beta-glucans content, lower starch amount and higher viscosity than normal genotypes. The USA2 waxy genotype characterized by higher beta-glucans content, has been subjected to dehulling, pearling, and pin-milling and then to air classification to obtain an enriched flour that showed higher dietary fiber (23.4% d.w.) and beta-glucans content (15.3% d.w.) The obtained enriched flour could be used for the production of functional foods (pasta, bread, biscuits etc) that satisfy the requirements of FDA and EU Regulation.