Effect of grasshopper (Sphenarium purpurascens Charpentier) paste addition on rheological behavior of Mole Poblano

Objective: Analyze the effect of grasshopper (Sphenarium purpurascens Charpentier) paste addition on the rheological behavior of Mole Poblano (MP) and its relation with the technological properties of the grasshopper paste. Design/methodology/approach: The addition of grasshopper paste was done at different proportions as follows: T0= 0% of grasshopper paste (GP) and 100% of mole Poblano (MP); T10=10% GP and 90% MP; T15=15% GP and 85% MP, T20=20% GP and 80% MP, T25=25% GP and 75 % MP, T30=30% GP and 70% MP. Water retention and emulsifying capacity of grasshopper paste were evaluated. Density, kinematic and apparent viscosity, and rheological behavior were analyzed at 25ºC; rheological parameters (consistency index (k) and flow behavior index (n)) were calculated by performing a regression analysis to adjust the graphs to a power-law model. Findings/conclusion: Grasshopper paste had higher emulsifying capability than water retention capability.  Apparent viscosity of all formulations decreased as shear rate increased, so all mixtures of GP and MP demonstrated No-Newtonian behavior and pseudoplastic performance. Index consistency increased as GP content increased, these results are related with protein content because GP had a good emulsifying capability. Limitations on study/implications: More studies about the characterization of the proteins of GP and their interaction with other components are required