TesT ResULTs FOR PHYsICOCHeMICaL PaRaMeTeRs

Energy | Protein | Acid-Insoluble Ash | Alcoholic Acidity | Total Sugar | Moisture | Fat | Vitamin D | Calcium | Phosphorus | Niacin | Saturated Fat | Iron | Potassium | Cholesterol and Trans Fat

energy The source of energy in this category of health drinks is carbohydrates, fats, etc., which are mainly derived from milk solids and sugar. There are no specified requirements in FSS Regulations, but these should be higher in health drinks. In our tests, we compared the total energy value (per 100 gm of sample calculated in Kcal) with the declared value.

Proteins are instrumental in forming cells, repairing tissue, making antibodies, building nucleoproteins (RNA/DNA), carrying oxygen throughout the body and assisting muscle activity. These must be present in a good amount in health drinks. The source of protein here is mainly the milk solids added during preparation.

In malt-based foods, total protein shall not be less than seven per cent. There are no specified requirements for proprietary food. • Most of the brands were found closer to the claimed values. Horlicks had protein content less than its declared value. • acid-Insoluble ash Acid-insoluble ash is the amount of ash that is insoluble in diluted hydrochloric acid. It indicates the presence of sand, dirt and dust. As per FSS Regulations, acid-insoluble ash in malt-based food shall not be more than 0.1 per cent by weight. There is no requirement for proprietary food. • Protinex had the highest protein content (as claimed), followed by Ensure. All the malt-based brands were found to be well within the specified limit.