Low-sodium Chaya Leaf Seasoning Powder with Potassium Chloride Substitution: Nutritional, Antioxidant, and Microbial Quality Assessment

This study investigates the development of a low-sodium seasoning powder using Chaya (Cnidoscolus chayamansa), popularly known as Mexican spinach, by substituting sodium chloride (NaCl) with potassium chloride (KCl) at various ratios. The antioxidant capabilities of dried Chaya leaves, dried at 60°C for five hours, were tested using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS) techniques, demonstrating excellent free radical scavenging activity and making it suitable for low sodium seasoning compositions. The substitution of 25% KCl was the most favored option, as it effectively balanced flavor and health advantages without causing noticeable changes in appearance, color, and aroma. This recipe successfully reduced the sodium content to 1171 mg/100 g while maintaining Chaya’s original nutritional values, which include 23.57 g/100 g of protein, 4.77 g/100 g of fats, and 54.12 g/100 g of carbohydrates, as well as dietary fibers. Additionally, the formulation demonstrated physicochemical stability, as indicated by an ash content of 14.00 g/100 g, moisture content of 3.51 g/100g, and a total energy of 353.69 kcal/100 g. The safety of this new seasoning is validated by its microbiological quality, which is indicated by a total bacterial count of 2.6×104 cfu/g and the absence of mold and yeast. This emphasizes the potential of the seasoning to promote healthy dietary choices by reducing sodium intake without affecting sensory appeal.