NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENT AND METHOD OF PREPARATION THEREOF

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a nutritional supplement comprising a combination of millets, grains, legumes in specific weight percentages along with at least one additive. The present invention further relates to a process for the preparation of such nutritional supplement thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Proper nutrition prevents dietary deficiencies, and also renders protection against the development of diseases. When the body faces physiological stress, proper nutrition plays an increasingly important role. Good nutrition is an important factor to lead a healthy lifestyle. Combined with physical activity, proper food diet can help to reach and maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases (like heart disease and cancer), and promote overall health of individuals.

[0004] In current scenario, there are many lifestyle issues such as acidity, headaches, weight gain, loss of energy, low hemoglobin content and low calcium levels of middle aged working population that suffer from long periods due to missed breakfast and lunches. Further due to work pressures and non-availability of healthy, hygienic quick meal options near work places, daily fulfillment of nutrition is not available to body.

[0005] Further inadequate intake of nutritionally balanced foods due to various socioeconomic reasons makes individuals especially children vulnerable to various diseases which often results in morbidity and mortality. Major nutritional problems prevalent in most of the developing countries are protein calorie malnutrition, vitamin deficiency and iron deficiency. Also, there is increase in obesity levels in children due to unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise and a general dislike towards millet/whole grain based traditional foods. [0006] Furthermore, pregnancy and lactation are among the most nutritionally volatile and physiologically stressful periods and processes in the lifetimes of women. Vitamin and mineral needs are almost universally increased during these natural processes. Increased vitamin and mineral needs during these times are almost always due to elevated metabolic demand, increased plasma volume, increased levels of blood cells, decreased concentrations of nutrients, and decreased concentrations of nutrient-binding proteins.

[0007] Various nutrition supplements are available in the markets which are artificial sources of vitamins, minerals, flavours, preservatives. There are taste barriers. Such products typically use just one or two cheaper sources of animal protein blended with a vitamin mineral premix. Further in marketed multi-grain/hi-fibre products, the percentage of multi-grain mix is not more than 5%-15% which is very less as compared to daily supplement requirement of body. Also, these products have taste barrier and is not acceptable to children and geriatric people. Another type of food supplement is whey/soy protein products comprises of whey or soy protein which are difficult to digest. Also these types of supplements have side effects such as "gout", kidney stones and digestive complications. Further meal replacement products are available in the market which does not provide satisfactory satiety for long hours and also result in side effects.

[0008] US Patent No. 4,710,387 describes a nutritional supplement preparation for pregnant and breast-feeding women based on milk constituents and the process of preparation. The composition contains by weight 10-20% protein, 16-28% fat, 43-65% carbohydrates, at most 3.5% moisture, minerals, trace elements, and vitamins such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, zinc, iodine, iron, vitamins A, Bl, B6, C, D3, E, niacin, folic acid, and optionally flavoring and/or colorant. The composition is distinguishable for being tailored to supply nutrients to a pregnant or breast-feeding woman and requires large amounts of fat (linoleic acid) and carbohydrates (lactose, dextrins and sucrose).

[0009] Further, US Patent No. 4,348,379 describes a dietetic composition for natural digestion regulation comprising in parts by weight each of 50-150 of whole fleawort seeds, whole linseed, wheat bran, and lactose. A binding agent based on natural rubber and optionally, flavor and/or food color. The composition is distinguishable for requiring fleawort seeds and whole linseed. [00010] Chinese patent no.101467619 discloses a cereal porridge having a plurality of coarse ground minor cereal grains that provides hypoglycaemic efficacy. The mixed grains is selected from oats, buckwheat, barley, Italy MI Ren, red bean, lentils, peas and other grains in a proportion of 30% : 25% : 15% : 10% : 10% : 5% : 5%. Porridge is not a very popular form among busy time- constrained working adults and kids as well.

[00011] US Patent No. 6,274,189 describes a reduced-flatulence, legume-based snack foods which comprises saccharides depleted legumes (field bean, white pea bean, Tepary bean, Mung bean, lima bean, Broad-bean, chickpea, lentil beans, peanuts, buckwheat, and flax) grain- based ingredients (cereal grain, oil seed, oil seed flour, and mixtures thereof) , water, and processing aids (inorganic and organic compounds of calcium, potassium, sodium, and mixtures thereof) processed with a developed matrix having a high crunch texture and a low fat absorption when cooked. The compositions are distinguishable for requiring cooking.

[00012] There is therefore a need to develop a nutritional supplement product comprising a specific combination of millets, grains and legumes in a particular proportion which will meet daily requirement of protein, calcium, iron, fibre and other micro-nutrient of the human body. Such a nutritional supplement must be easily digestible inspite of the heavy mix of legumes and millets thereby making it suitable for geriatric population. Furthermore, such a nutritional supplement must be provided in a form of a pre-cooked instant mix thereby offering convenience of an on-the-go meal. Till date, no one has disclosed an effective combination of millets, grains and legumes in a single formulation which is nutritious, easily digestible and improves health management. Thus the present invention satisfies the existing needs, as well as others, and generally overcomes the deficiencies found in the prior art.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[00013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a nutritional supplement comprising a combination of a millet based component, a grain based component and a legume based components in specific weight percentages along with at least one additive.

[00014] A further object of the present invention is to provide a process for the preparation of said nutritional supplement thereof.

[00015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement capable of providing complete balanced meal nutrition without any side effects. [00016] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement which is nutritious and easily digestible.

[00017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement wherein the ingredients are sprouted for better bioavailability.

[00018] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement capable of exhibiting improved health and better weight management.

[00019] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement which is free from any chemical ingredients.

[00020] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement capable of exhibiting acceptable palatability, and preferably a consistency that is suitable for children, women, sports persons, adults and geriatrics.

[00021] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement that can be combined with food products.

[00022] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement capable of exhibiting a shelf life of at least 6 months.

[00023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a safe, a nutritional supplement capable of providing daily requirement of several essential micronutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, fibre etc from their natural sources

[00024] A further object of the present invention is to provide a process for preparing the nutritional supplement that can be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed.

[00025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement and a process for preparing the same which obviates the disadvantages associated with known art.

[00026] Another object of the present invention is to provide a nutritional supplement which is inexpensive, dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

[00027] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a process that is technically and commercially feasible.

[00028] Other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the description of the invention herein below. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00029] The present invention relates to a nutritional supplement comprising a combination of:

a) a grain based component in an amount ranging from 10% to 20% by weight;

b) a millets based component in an amount ranging from 8% tol 5% by weight;

c) a legume based component in an amount ranging from 25% to 35% by weight; and d) at least one additive.

[00030] In an embodiment of the present invention, the grain based component comprises at least two ingredients selected from a group consisting of wheat, brown rice, red rice, black rice, sorghum, quinoa, rye and the like thereof.

[00031] In another embodiment of the present invention, the millet based component comprises at least two ingredients selected from a group consisting of finger millet, pearl millet, foxtail millet and the like thereof.

[00032] In another embodiment of the present invention, the legume based component comprises at least two ingredients selected from a group consisting of mung, soyabean, gram, peas, beans, peanut and the like thereof.

[00033] In another embodiment of the present invention, the additive is selected from a group consisting of filler, milk solids, protein mix, flavoring agent, sweetener, binders, minerals, functional ingredients, neutraceuticals and the like thereof.

[00034] The present invention further relates to a process for the preparation of such nutritional supplement comprising the steps of:

a) cleaning and soaking each of ingredients of grain based, millet based and legume based components in sufficient water for a suitable period of time;

b) germinating the ingredients by providing suitable temperature and environment; c) mixing the germinated seeds as obtained in step (b) with water in a ratio of 60: 40 to prepare a slurry;

d) drying the slurry as obtained in step (c) in a conventional drier at suitable temperature and pressure to prepare flakes thereof;

e) milling the flakes by a conventional mill to obtain powder in an uniform particle size; and f) blending the obtained powder with an additive in variable proportions to obtain the nutritional supplement.

[00035] In an embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is in the form of solid or liquid.

[00036] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is prepared in the form of dry instant powder, instant premix formulation, liquid shake, edible bar, snacks, ready to drink (R-T-D) inter alia.

[00037] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is formulated from 100% organic and natural plant-based ingredients with the highest grade of protein, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients.

[00038] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is intended as food supplement for children, women, sports persons, adults and geriatrics.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[00039] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more comprehensively with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.

[00040] The present invention provides a nutritional supplement comprising a combination of:

a) a grain based component in an amount ranging from 10% to 20% by weight;

b) a millets based component in an amount ranging from 8% tol 5% by weight;

c) a legume based component in an amount ranging from 25% to 35% by weight; and d) at least one additive.

[00041] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions may be included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

[00042] As used in the description herein, the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. [00043] As used herein, the term "combination" refers to materials added together with or without substantial mixing towards achieving homogeneity.

[00044] As used herein, the term "mix" refers to adding materials together and achieving homogeneity, and the term "mixture" refers to mixed materials achieving homogeneity.

[00045] As used herein, the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprising", "include", "includes", and "including" are meant to be non- limiting, i.e., other steps and other ingredients which do not affect the end of result can be added. The above terms encompass the terms "consisting of and "consisting essentially of.

[00046] The terms "weight percent," "wt-%," "percent by weight," "% by weight," and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to the concentration of a substance as the weight of that substance divided by the total weight of the composition and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used here, "percent," "%," and the like are intended to be synonymous with "weight percent," "wt-%," etc.

[00047] As used herein, the term "grain" refers to a variety or type of grain, e.g. buckwheat, wheat, brown rice, red rice, black rice, sorghum, quinoa, rye and the like thereof.

[00048] As used herein, the term "legume" refers to a raw, whole, unprocessed legume isolated from a natural plant source. Legumes can be commercially acquired from any number of manufacturers and include peas, soybeans, beans, mung, lentils, peas and the like thereof.

[00049] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement comprises a grain based component in an amount ranging from 10% to 20% by weight.

[00050] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the grain based component comprises at least two or more ingredients selected from a group consisting of wheat, brown rice, red rice, black rice, sorghum, quinoa, rye and the like thereof.

[00051] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement further comprises a millet based component in an amount ranging from 8% to 15% by weight.

[00052] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the millet based component comprises at least two ingredients selected from a group consisting of finger millet, pearl millet, foxtail millet and the like thereof. [00053] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement further comprises of a legume based component in an amount ranging from 25% to 35% by weight.

[00054] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, legume based component comprises at least two ingredients selected from a group consisting of mung, soyabean, gram, peas, beans, peanut and the like thereof.

[00055] Yet another embodiment of the present invention, the at least one additive can comprise milk solids such as cow's milk, almond milk, chia milk, coconut milk, yoghurt; protein mixes such as soy, almond, amaranth, whey, milk; soluble beverage components, nutraceutical ingredients, functional ingredients and the like thereof. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the additional additives can be used without departing the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[00056] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is prepared by a process comprises the steps of:

a) cleaning and soaking each of ingredients of grain based, millet based and legume based components in sufficient water for a suitable period of time;

b) germinating the ingredients by providing suitable temperature and environment; c) mixing the germinated seeds as obtained in step (b) with water in a ratio of 60: 40 to prepare a slurry;

d) drying the slurry as obtained in step (c) in a conventional drier at suitable temperature and pressure to prepare flakes thereof;

e) milling the flakes by a conventional mill to obtain powder in an uniform particle size; and

f) blending the obtained powder with an additive in variable proportions to obtain the nutritional supplement.

[00057] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the process of soaking as described in step (a) is done for a time period ranging between 4 hours to 10 hours.

[00058] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the process of germination is done by placing the soaked ingredients in a tray covered with muslin cloth.

[00059] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the process of germination is done by a conventional sprouting apparatus known in the art. [00060] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the temperature for step (b) ranges from 30 °C to 40 °C.

[00061] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the conventional drier as used in step (d) is selected from a group consisting of spray drier, drum drier and the like thereof.

[00062] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the drying is performed at a temperature ranging from 90-120 °C and pressure ranging from of 3-6 kg/m ² .

[00063] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the conventional mill as used in step (e) is selected from a group consisting of fluid energy mill, jet mill, pin mill, hammer mill and the like thereof.

[00064] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the additives as used in step (f) are selected from a group consisting of milk solids such as cow's milk, almond milk, chia milk, coconut milk, yoghurt; protein mixes such as soy, almond, amaranth, whey, milk; soluble beverage components, nutraceutical ingredients, functional ingredients and the like thereof.

[00065] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement further contains one or more natural sweetener.

[00066] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the natural sweetener is selected from a group consisting of honey, date sugar, jaggery, concentrated cane juice and the like thereof.

[00067] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the concentration of natural sweetener ranges from 5 % to 40%.

[00068] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the additive is a flavoring agent selected from a group of natural, nature-identical, synthetic flavoring agent or any natural preservative like rosemary extract etc.

[00069] In an embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is prepared as solid or liquid formulations.

[00070] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is prepared in the form of dry instant powder, instant premix formulation, liquid shake, edible bar, snacks, ready to drink (R-T-D) inter alia. [00071] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is packaged utilizing any of a variety of aseptic and non aseptic packaging techniques known in the art.

[00072] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement has a shelf life of more than 9 months for dry powder form and more than 6 months for liquid bottled preparations.

[00073] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement can be consumed directly or with other food.

[00074] In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutritional supplement is intended for children, adolescents, women, sports persons and geriatric people.

[00075] While certain embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure has been described by way of illustration and not limitations.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[00076] The present invention provides a nutritional supplement comprising a combination of a millet based component, a grain based component and a legume based components in specific weight percentages along with at least one additive.

[00077] The present invention further provides a process for the preparation of such nutritional supplement thereof.

[00078] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement capable of providing complete balanced meal nutrition without any side effects.

[00079] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement which is nutritious and easily digestible.

[00080] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement capable of exhibiting improved health and better weight management.

[00081] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement which is free from any chemical ingredients. [00082] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement capable of exhibiting acceptable palatability, and preferably a consistency that is suitable for children, women, sports persons, adults and geriatrics.

[00083] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement that can be combined with food products.

[00084] The present invention further provides a safe, a nutritional supplement capable of providing daily requirement of several essential micronutrients such as vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, fibre etc.

[00085] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement and a process for preparing the same which obviates the disadvantages associated with known art.

[00086] The present invention further provides a nutritional supplement which is inexpensive, dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

[00087] The present invention further provides a process that is technically and commercially feasible.

EXAMPLES

[00088] The present invention is further explained in the form of following examples. However it is to be understood that the foregoing examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[00089] Three products Strombss for active adults in Vanilla and chocolate flavour, Strombss Diet for diabetics, in vanilla flavour and Strombss for Kids 2-12year olds, with Chocolate flavour were prepared based on the present invention. All the three formulations were evaluated based on their analyte content. Below are the test reports for each of these three products.

[00090] Example 1: Test report of Strombss + Active Vanilla

Table 1:

Sr. Name of Analyte Result Unit LOQ Test Method

No. Calories 369 Kcal/lOOg - By Calculation

Protein 33.12 - Based on DGHS Manual

Carbohydrate 57.15 - By Calculation

Fat 0.86 - TUV/SOP/027

Sugar 20.89 - Based on DGHS Manual

Dietary Fibre 6.29 - AOAC 985.29

Total Saturated Fatty 0.19 g/100g TUV/SOP/015 based on acid AOAC 996.06

Total monosturated 0.23

Fatty acid

Total Polyunsaturated 0.44

Fatty acid

0 Trans Fatty acid 0 -1 Cholesterol <LOQ mg/lOOg 5mg/100g TUV/SOP/016 based on

AOAC 976.26

2 Iron 163 mg/kg - TUV/SOP/019 based on3 Calcium 0.36 g/100g - AOAC 984.27 & 999.104 Sodium 0.41 -5 Vitamin E 33.56 mg/lOOg 5 mg/kg TUV/SOP/044 based on

AOAC 989.09

6 Vitamin B2 0.5874 mg/lOOg - TUV/SOP/043

LOQ: Limit of Quantification

DGHS: Directorate General of Health S

[00091] Example 2: Test report for Strombss +Diet Vanilla

Table 2:

Sr. Name of Analyte Result Unit LOQ Test Method No.

Calories 366 Kcal/lOOg - By Calculation

Protein 35.04 g/100g - Based DGHS Manual Carbohydrate 55.33 - By Calculation

Fat 0.55 - TUV/SOP/027

Sugar 11.00 - Based on DGHS Manual

Dietary Fibre 6.57 - AOAC 985.29

Total Saturated Fatty 0.12 TUV/SOP/015 based on acid AOAC 996.06

Total monosturated 0.14

Fatty acid

Total Polyunsaturated 0.29

Fatty acid

0 Trans Fatty acid 0 -1 Cholesterol <LOQ mg/lOOg 5mg/100g TUV/SOP/016 based on

AOAC 976.26

2 Iron 266 mg/kg - TUV/SOP/019 based on3 Calcium 0.34 g/100g - AOAC 984.27 & 999.104 Sodium 0.53 -5 Vitamin E 43.66 mg/lOOg TUV/SOP/044 based on

AOAC 989.09

6 Vitamin B2 0.0513 mg/lOOg - TUV/SOP/043

LOQ: Limit of Quantification

DGHS: Directorate General of Health Service

[00092] Example 3: Test report for Strombss + Active Chocolate

Table 3:

Sr. Name of Analyte Result Unit LOQ Test Method No.

Vitamin Bl <LOQ - 0.25 TUV/SOP/043 for

Vitamin B9 <LOQ mg/kg determination of Vitamin

B

Vitamin E 16.49 mg/lOOg 5.0 TUV/SOP/017 based on IS mg/lOOg 15120 : 2002

Vitamin A <LOQ - 0.5 mg/kg

Vitamin C 6.96 mg/lOOg - IS : 5838 : 1970

Sugar 24.55 % - DGHS Manual

Fat 1.31 % - TUV/SOP/027

Moisture 3.41 % - DGHS Manual

Protein 15.48 - DGHS Manual

0 Energy 380 Kcal - By Calculation

1 Carbohydrate 76.07 % - By Calculation

2 Iron 40.3 mg/lOOg - TUV/SOP/019 based on3 Calcium 398 - AO AC 984.27 & 999.104 Magnesium 154 -

LOQ: Limit of Quantification

DGHS: Directorate General of Health S

Example 4: Test report for sample: Water

Sr. No Test Name Result Unit Test Method

Sample Name: Water CA No: 0041300824

Chemical Tests

Chloride 9.4 mg/L IS 3025 Part-32 RA(2009)

Colour <1 Hazen IS 3025 Part-4 RA(2006) pH 7.9 - IS 3025 Part- 11 RA(2006)

Residual free Chlorine <0.1 mg/L IS 3025 Part-26 RA(2009)

Total Alkalinity 54.6 mg/L IS 3025 Part-23 RA(2009)

Total dissolved solids 64 mg/L IS 3025 Part-16 RA(2006)

Total Hardness 27.4 mg/L IS 3025 Part-21 RA(2009)

Turbidity <1 NTU IS 3025 Part-10 RA(2006)

Microbiology Tests

Detection of E. coli Absent per 100 ml IS 1622: 1981 RA: 1996 0 Total Coliforms <2 per 100 ml IS 1622: 1981 RA: 1996

[00094] Example 5: Test report for Strombss for 2-12 year olds kids +Vanilla Table 5:

[00095] Example 6: Test report for Strombss for 2-12 year olds kids + Chocolate Table 6:

Name of Analyte Result Unit

Calories 380 Kcal

Protein 15.48 g/100g Fat 1.31 g/100g

Carbohydrates 76.07 g/100g

Sugars 24.55 g/100g

Vitamin A BLQ IU

Vitamin C 6.96 mg/lOOg

Vitamin Bl BLQ mg/lOOg

Vitamin B9 BLQ mg/lOOg

Vitamin E 16.49 IU

Calcium 398 mg/lOOg

Iron 40.3 mg/lOOg

Magnesium 154 mg/lOOg