Shelf-life evaluation of a millet-based nutri-bar: Sensory stability during ambient storage

Abstract

This study evaluated the shelf-life stability of a millet-based nutri-bar under ambient storage conditions (25±2 °C) to address the critical need for shelf-stable, nutritious foods in resource-limited regions. The nutri-bar, formulated with pearl millet, finger millet, sorghum, jaggery, and indigenous nuts/seeds, was packaged in HDPE pouches and assessed over 30 days. Sensory evaluation (color, aroma, taste, texture, appearance, overall acceptability) was conducted by a 10-member trained panel at 0, 15, and 30 days using a 9-point hedonic scale. Results demonstrated excellent stability, with overall acceptability remaining above 7.5 throughout storage (7.96±0.30 at day 0 vs. 7.50±0.52 at day 30). No significant deterioration (p>0.05) was observed in key attributes—texture (8.56±0.58 to 7.90±0.51) and taste (7.90±0.17 to 7.90±0.31). The product maintained