Srilakshmi breaks down micronutrients not just by their chemical names, but by their function in the human body. This section bridges the gap between pure food science and nutrition, detailing how processing affects vitamin retention (e.g., the loss of Vitamin C during boiling).
For students in the Indian subcontinent, the detailed chapters on the composition of cereals (wheat, rice) and pulses (lentils) are invaluable. The book explains the science of gluten development in wheat flour, which dictates the texture of chapaties and breads, and the anti-nutritional factors found in pulses.
The book provides an exhaustive look at the three major macronutrients. It details the chemical structure of sugars and starches, the complexities of amino acids in proteins, and the composition of various fats and oils. The section on Fats is particularly noted for its clear explanation of rancidity and the smoke point of oils, which is crucial for culinary students.
A unique inclusion. The book details the chemistry of spices—capsaicin in chilies, curcumin in turmeric, and eugenol in cloves. Home cooks and food technologists use this section to formulate spice blends scientifically.
Srilakshmi breaks down micronutrients not just by their chemical names, but by their function in the human body. This section bridges the gap between pure food science and nutrition, detailing how processing affects vitamin retention (e.g., the loss of Vitamin C during boiling).
For students in the Indian subcontinent, the detailed chapters on the composition of cereals (wheat, rice) and pulses (lentils) are invaluable. The book explains the science of gluten development in wheat flour, which dictates the texture of chapaties and breads, and the anti-nutritional factors found in pulses.
The book provides an exhaustive look at the three major macronutrients. It details the chemical structure of sugars and starches, the complexities of amino acids in proteins, and the composition of various fats and oils. The section on Fats is particularly noted for its clear explanation of rancidity and the smoke point of oils, which is crucial for culinary students.
A unique inclusion. The book details the chemistry of spices—capsaicin in chilies, curcumin in turmeric, and eugenol in cloves. Home cooks and food technologists use this section to formulate spice blends scientifically.