A Novel Solution to Enhance the Oxidative and Physical Properties of Cookies Using Maltodextrin-Based Nano-Sized Oils as a Fat Substitute

This study investigated the effects of maltodextrin-based nanoemulsions as fat substitutes in cookies, focusing on the oxidative stability and physical properties. Full-fat cookies (control, C) and 50% fat-reduced cookies with nanoemulsions (FC) were produced. The addition of nanoemulsions increased the cookie diameter from 46.3 mm (control) to 56.1 mm and reduced the thickness, resulting in a desirable texture. Initial hardness values (30.3 and 45.8 N) were lower in nanoemulsion samples and remained reduced over a 90 day storage period. Black cumin oil-loaded nanoemulsions provided the lowest peroxide values (1.7, 2.7, and 2.4 mequiv O₂/kg), maintaining oxidative stability during storage. Final free fatty acid (FFA) values ranged from 0.23% to 0.44% after storage. Thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values indicated slower lipid oxidation, with values ranging from 1.47 to 2.51 mg MDA/kg on day 0 and increasing to a maximum of 4.13 mg MDA/kg by day 90 in fat-reduced cookies. Among the tested formulations, nanoemulsions enriched with black cumin oil demonstrated the highest effectiveness, yielding enhanced oxidative stability and improved quality characteristics. This study presents an innovative strategy by utilizing maltodextrin-based nanoemulsions containing naturally antioxidant-rich oils as fat replacers, offering a clean-label alternative to improve the oxidative resilience and physical quality of cookies.