Sucrose-free milk chocolate manufacture using bulking agents and a non-caloric sweetener

Sucrose is important in the production of chocolates because it contributes to its texture and sensory acceptance. The aim was to evaluate the effect of adding bulking agents and a non-caloric sweetener in the preparation of a sucrose-free milk chocolate. One control sample (with sucrose) and 11 treatments were taken varying the ratio between bulking agents (maltitol, polydextrose, inulin) and non-caloric sweetener (stevia), preserving the sweetness of control. Sensory acceptance of each treatment was evaluated by preference tests and taste profile. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that formulations with maltitol and stevia (F7); and maltitol, polydextrose, inulin and stevia (F10) were the most similar to control in their sensory and quality properties. Polydextrose concentration at levels higher than 25% negatively affected the product texture. F10 showed higher fiber contribution due to the presence of inulin.