Unveiling the impact of durum wheat protein quantity and quality on textural properties and microstructure of cooked pasta

This study investigated the impact of protein quantity and gluten strength on mechanical properties and microstructure of cooked pasta using texture analyzer and scanning electron microscopy. Three Canadian durum varieties with wide range of gluten strength at four protein levels were selected. Four distinct microstructures were characterized for cooked pasta. Pasta with firm texture exhibited compact and dense protein networks, while that with soft texture showed open, coarse, and heterogeneous structures. Protein content was the dominant factor in determining pasta firmness, the impact of gluten strength on pasta texture depends on protein content and cooking time. Greater impact from gluten strength was observed when pasta was overcooked. The relative contribution of protein quantity and quality in cooked pasta texture depends upon the ranges of protein content, gluten strength, and degree of cooking. This study unveiled the impact of wheat protein content and gluten strength on textural and microstructural properties of pasta at three cooking times. Results generated from this study provide guidance for durum breeding programs, durum milling, and pasta processing industry in setting protein content and gluten strength targets to ensure pasta quality.