Particle sizing of chewed tree nuts - Pistachios and Brazils (v1.0)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Particle sizing of masticated tree nuts - Pistachios and Brazil nuts
IRAS ID
181713
Contact name
Sarah Berry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London, Guy's Campus
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 4 days
Research summary
How does oral processing of tree nuts affect particle size and the presence of lipid (fat) on the cut surfaces?
The primary objective is to measure the size of nut particles that have been chewed sufficiently to be swallowed. The secondary objective is to measure the effect of processing on fat release. A theoretical model have been developed for determining the release of nutrients from plant tissue. The model has recently been used to calculate the amount of lipid released from the ruptured cells of chewed almonds. The size information we gather from this study will help us to apply the model to new foods. Knowing how lipid is released from plant foods during digestion may help in the dietary management of obesity.
Adults who have healthy dentition and are not allergic to nuts will be eligible. Recruitment will be via internal email at King’s College London (KCL).
Potential participants will be screened for suitability by questionnaire. Eligible participants may be requested to attend a maximum of 2 chewing sessions at KCL. Informed consent will be requested at the start of the first session.
During each session (maximum 1 hour) eight samples of whole tree nuts (4-5 g of Pistachio and Brazil nuts) will be given to participants. Two samples will be chewed and swallowed as normal, whilst the number of chews and time prior to swallowing are measured. The next six samples will be chewed and spat out before swallowing. They will rinse their mouth with water (similar amount, weighed in the preparation) after each sample. The chewed samples will have their particle size distributions and remaining fat content measured.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
15/WS/0104
Date of REC Opinion
21 May 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion