VALUE-ADDED IRON- AND PROTEIN-RICH LADDOO FOR MARTIAL ARTS ATHLETES: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT, NUTRITIONAL ANALYSIS, SENSORY ACCEPTABILITY AND SHELF-LIFE EVALUATION

Abstract

Martial arts practitioners undergo intense physical training that requires specialized nutrition for optimal performance, muscle recovery, and overall health. Among the key nutrients that support athletic performance, protein and iron are crucial, with deficiencies in these nutrients potentially impairing strength, energy levels, and recovery. This study aimed to develop a protein- and iron-rich laddoo, a traditional Indian sweet snack, as a dietary supplement tailored for young martial arts players. The laddoo incorporated nutrient-dense ingredients such as sesame seeds, garden cress seeds, roasted bengal gram, black raisins, skimmed milk powder, cocoa, sugar, and ghee. The nutritional composition of the laddoo was analysed to determine its protein and iron content, along with other macro and micronutrients. Sensory acceptability and shelf-life stability were evaluated. Nutritional composition analysis revealed that the laddoo provided 15.09 % protein, 10.6 % iron, and 417.16 kcal of energy, along with other vital nutrients. Sensory evaluation showed high acceptability with a mean score of 10 for taste and flavour. The shelf-life study indicated that the laddoos maintained their quality for up to 30 days under ambient storage conditions. The results suggest that this fortified laddoo could serve as a convenient, nutrient-dense, and traditionally acceptable source of nutrition for martial arts athletes, supporting muscle recovery and overall performance.