Now you can hog on all the snacks you want to without worrying about your health, as researchers at Deakin University have developed a prototype tasty snack food with special health benefits.
Dr Russell Keast, a senior lecturer in the school of exercise and nutrition sciences, has developed a new snack food with a parmesan cheese cracker, organic mashed potato and special healthy additives.
“This new snack has natural additives such as an anti-inflammatory agent, omega 3 fatty acids and zinc to improve brain and heart function, boost male virility and improve immunity,” he was quoted as saying.
Dr Keast said it was the first time the anti-inflammatory agent oleocanthal had been included in a manufactured food and research was continuing into its flavor and health promoting properties.
A natural appetite suppressant which makes the consumer feel fuller for longer, and a natural compound to increase liking for a product, have also been added to the snack food.
Samples of the snack are being presented to the food industry at a workshop at Deakin University to point the way to healthy snacks of the future.
“Overall, the snack is a vehicle for these health promoting compounds. However, it must be flavorsome and popular so people will want to eat it repeatedly,” Dr Keast said.
Professor Andrew Sinclair, Chair in Human Nutrition in the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, said the workshop aimed to bring together leaders in marketing, product development, researchers and educators, with Deakin University experts.
The workshop will be held at Deakin University’s Burwood campus, Building X, Lecture Theatre 12 from 8.30am. Registration is limited to 100 places.