Development of instant germinated black rice (Maejo rice 1A) milk beverage powder fortified with Cordyceps militaris protein isolate

Development of instant germinated black rice (Maejo rice 1A) milk beverage powder fortified with Cordyceps militaris protein isolate was investigated. The base formula was optimized using mixture design, with Formula 8 (24% rice powder, 12% monk fruit sugar, 44% milk powder, 19.7% inulin and 0.3% Palsgaard® RecMilk) selected based on sensory evaluation. The beverage was then fortified with protein isolate at 0%, 3%, 5%, and 7% (w/w). Physicochemical properties, antioxidant activities, and sensory characteristics were evaluated. Protein fortification influenced color, water activity, viscosity, and nutritional composition, while enhancing phenolic-related compounds and antioxidant potential, indicating improved functional properties of the beverage powder. The 7% protein-fortified sample exhibited the highest antioxidant activity across all assays while maintaining acceptable thermal stability. Sensory evaluation showed that 5% protein fortification achieved optimal consumer acceptance (overall score 7.65), outperforming commercial products. The study demonstrates successful development of a functional beverage powder with enhanced nutritional and antioxidant properties through protein fortification.