Comparison of nutritional, antioxidant, physicochemical, and rheological characteristics of whole and sprouted wheat flour

Wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple food used to prepare various ready-to-eat items. Germination increases the nutritional content of grains while decreasing the anti-nutrient content. The current study investigated the effects of sprouting on the nutritional, antioxidant, physicochemical, and rheological properties of wheat flour. Sprouting of whole wheat flour was performed, and comparisons were made for nutritional composition, gluten content, soluble dietary fibers, total phenolic and antioxidant activity, anti-nutrients, and rheological properties of whole wheat flour and sprouted wheat flour. Sprouting improved the nutritional composition of wheat flour. Results revealed significant improvements in ash, proteins, dietary fibers, insoluble fibers, and protein digestibility. The study indicated a positive correlation of sprouting time with phenolics and antioxidant activities of processed wheat flours. Sprouting reduced tannin and phytates contents and anticipated elevation in water absorption, dough stability, dough development time, the mixing time and sedimentation time. However, a significant decrease in the falling number of germinated wheat flours was observed, along with an improved color profile of the treated flours. This study suggests 72 h sprouting as a viable approach to improve the nutrient digestibility, nutritional profile, and antioxidant potential of wheat, thus depicting processed flour with improved functional attributes. • Significant improvements in the nutritional composition of wheat flours after sprouting. • Significant increase in protein digestibility. • Positive correlation of sprouting time on phenolics and antioxidant activities. • Sprouting resulted in a reduction of tannin and phytates contents.