Hunt on for biscuit lovers to taste test for scientific trial

Biscuit lovers are being sought to taste test a new generation of sweet treats that have been developed by Scots scientists.

Members of the public are invited to volunteer to sample five different biscuits and give them a rating.

The trial is being run by the Rowett Institute at Aberdeen University, where nutritionists have worked to create new protein rich biscuits to keep muscles healthy in older age.

Professor Alexandra Johnstone who is leading the study, said: “It may seem like a really simple concept, but we really do need members of the public to come to the Rowett to taste some samples and let us know what they think.

“We are really keen to support future production of higher protein products in order to promote healthy ageing by supporting protein intake to prevent sarcopenia, which is loss of muscle mass.

“However, there is absolutely no point in us developing snacks that are healthier but that the majority of people would not find palatable.

“So we are asking for volunteers to come along and let us know how they rate our biscuits.”

The biscuits are all ginger flavoured and contain either high or lower levels of plant or animal protein, derived from whey.

They have been created specifically to see how food can boost muscle mass in the older generation with nutritionists keen to retain a traditional taste to the biscuits.

Dr Johnstone said the texture of the biscuit was a cross between a Rich Tea and a Digestive.

With protein consumption tending to drop off in the morning, researchers wanted to create a product that could be eaten on its own or as part of a meal.

“We have looked at what is available on the market to see how we can plug that gap with a product that is both high in protein and enjoyable to eat. Protein is a bit of a buzz world at the moment and a lot of products are marketed for sport of weight loss but we are specifically looking at ageing,” Dr Johnstone added.

Further research will be required to determine the impact the biscuits have on health.

The biscuits have been created as part of the ‘Protein 4 Life’ partnership between five academic centres and the food industry. Volunteers must be aged over 40 and must not follow a vegan diet.