Cereal bran and wholegrain as a source of dietary fibre: technological and health aspects

Abstract

Interest in cereal bran as a source of dietary fibre (DF) and functional components has increased in recent years. Current studies actively focus on DF definition, analysis, formulation in consumer-friendly food products, processing and beneficial health effects. Although bran composition and its benefits to human physiology have been investigated, its technological role as an ingredient is still under study for a variety of cereal foodstuffs. This review provides an overview of cereal bran characterization, functional properties and technological features concerning the bread-making process. In addition, we review the evidence from recent studies indicating that cereal bran may be used as a functional ingredient to improve consumer perception.

Keywords::

• cereal bran
• dietary fibre
• functional food
• healthy benefits
• consumer perception

Declaration of interest: This work was supported by the Mexican Council of Science and Technology (CONACyT), and by a Postgrade Grant given to Alán Pavlovich Abril. All authors of this manuscript declare that we have no affiliation with any organization with a financial interest, direct or indirect, in the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript (such as consultancies, employment, paid expert testimony, honoraria, speakers bureaus, retainers, stock options or ownership, patents or patent applications or travel grants) that may affect the conduct or reporting of the work submitted.