Soya milk possesses dietetic properties, which include lower contents of saturated fat, cholesterol and lactose, and can reduce the risk of cardio vascular diseases. Partial substitution of milk solids with soya solids during the preparation of yoghurt further enhances its dietetic features.
Attempt has been made to highlight the nutritional and therapeutic properties of soya milk and its suitability for the manufacture of soyoghurt with enhanced dietetic properties. Basic steps for the manufacture of soyoghurt, such as preparation of soya milk base, addition of stabilizers, sweetening agents, starter cultures and flavors and storage stability of the finished products are described.
Soya solids in various forms such as soya milk, soya bean paste, soya protein concentrate and soya bean flour may be adopted during the manufacture of soyoghurt, but their concentration must be kept within the limits to sustaining the acceptability of the product. Problem of objectionable bean flavour and slower metabolic activity of starter cultures in soya milk can be solved with starter manipulation and introduction of sweetening agents and flavours.
Possession of nutritional and therapeutic qualities by soya beans have led to their exploitation for the manufacture of soyoghurt. Consumption of soyoghurt among health conscious people and allergic sufferers in search of meat replacer and dairy alternatives should be encouraged.
