Acceptability of Banana Rice Milk as alternative Nutritive Drink

Abstract

This study aimed to produce a nutritive drink rich in vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals found in Banana peel that has many benefits to health. It also aimed to determine the acceptability of Banana Rice Milk with its proven nutritional benefits of both banana peel and rice milk as an alternative nutritive drink. The main ingredients were banana peel Musa ‘saba’ (Musa acuminatex Musa balbisiana and rice milk Oryza sativa which are both locally available in the municipality of Gerona, Tarlac. It was proven from different studies that banana peel has many phytochemicals such as glycosides, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and flavonoids. The banana peel was gathered from the waste product in school canteen selling banana que and turon. The white rice used for this research is “Magnolia” variety since it is soft and a bit sticky, a good characteristic to make rice milk. The phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals of the banana peel were extracted by heating the banana peel powder with a ratio of 40 g is to 400 mL of distilled water at a certain temperature between 50-60 degrees Celsius. The rice milk was prepared with a cup of white rice with 10 cups of water then blended and strained using a cheese cloth to separate its pulp with its milk, then combined with the banana peel extract. Data gathering was conducted for the acceptability of the study. Based from the result, it was proven that the banana rice milk is approved in terms of its nutritive value, uniqueness, and as a cheaper alternative nutritive drink. It is recommended that the banana rice milk would be blended with some fruits like mango or banana pulp, which are also available within the locality to add flavor and be more nutritious.