Development of value-added nutritious crackers with high antidiabetic properties from blends of Acha (Digitaria exilis) and blanched Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan).

Pigeon pea was treated by blanching and used to supplement acha flour for the development of functional cracker biscuits. The flour ratios for acha and pigeon pea were 100:0 (ACC), 80:20 (APC1), and 70:30 (APC2), respectively. The developed cracker biscuits were evaluated for chemical acid compositions, antioxidant, as well as antidiabetic properties. Protein contents of the formulated crackers increased with increase in supplementation with pigeon pea flour. The antinutrient content of the formulated snack was low hence may not adversely affect nutrient bioavailability. Glutamic and aspartic acids were the predominant amino acids while methionine and lysine significantly increased as a result of supplementation with pigeon pea flour. The biscuit exhibited good antioxidant properties indicated by its strong ability to scavenge hydroxyl, superoxide, DPPH radicals, and reduced Fe3+ to Fe2+. The formulated snack especially APC2 possessed low glycemic index (47.95%) and significantly inhibited the key digestive enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase). All parameters evaluated indicated that APC2 could serve as a functional snack in the management of hyperglycemia (diabetes) and prevention of associated degenerative diseases.