Mineral composition and technological properties of einkorn wheat as affected by storage conditions

Abstract

To maintain grain quality and prevent loss, effective storage systems are required. This study aimed to determine ideal conditions of temperature in storage and mineral composition and technological properties (color, gravimetric, and dimensional) of einkorn wheat seeds during a storage period of 360 days. The experimental design adopted in room conditions with storage duration (initial, 60th, 120th, 180th, 240th, 300th, and 360th days) and temperatures (4 degrees C, 10 degrees C, and 20 degrees C). It was determined that a increasing in the storage temperature decreased Na, Mg, Mn, and Zn contents of the seeds. The storage at 20 degrees C and room conditions caused a decrease in L*, a*, b* and Chroma. Although moisture content fluctuated throughout storage period, it increased at the end of storage period. The best mineral and technological properties of einkorn wheat seeds were obtained with 4 degrees C storage. This temperature was followed by 10 degrees C, 20 degrees C, and room conditions, respectively.

Practical applications Einkorn wheat are one of the consumed wheats in the world and their quality for consumption is directly related to by storage conditions that alter mineral composition, color, and technological properties. Therefore, this study seeks to present a practical and viable solution for farmers of einkorn wheat so that they can store these grains for long periods, maintaining the quality standards for commercialization. In addition, this study allows the farmers to identify the best duration for commercialization of einkorn wheat grains, which has high added value.