This study was aimed at producing sweetened condensed soymilk (SCS) from three improved
soybean varieties TGx1740-2F, TGx1987-10F and TGx1987-62F which were obtained from
a research institute. SCS was also produced from a local variety and used for comparison
with those from improved varieties. The present study was undertaken with the view to
improving utilization of the soybeans in developing countries like Nigeria. The SCS samples
were canned and stored at room temperature (30o
C) for four months, during which certain
quality parameters and shelf stability indicators, including proximate properties, amino acid
composition and sensory quality were evaluated. The pH values of the samples, during storage
period, were within 6.5 to 7.0 while crude fibre (%) varied between 1.34 and 2.14. The highest
contents (%) of 2.44 (for TGx1740-2F variety) and 19.82 (for TGx1987-62F) were recorded
for ash and protein respectively in the SCS. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed
in the proximate properties during storage. Analysis of amino acid composition indicated that
there was presence of essential amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine, threonine and valine
at concentrations (g/16 g N) of 11.69, 10.14, 10.57 and 9.58 respectively. Result of sensory
evaluation of the SCS showed that they were acceptable in the quality attributes of colour,
mouth feel, flavour, taste and viscosity as mean scores of above 5.0 were recoded for each of
the attributes. The SCS obtained from TGx1740-2F variety recorded the highest mean score
in terms of general acceptability. It was concluded that shelf stable and good quality SCS can
be produced from improved and local soybeans varieties. Production of sweetened condensed
soymilk from soybeans may therefore promote utilization of the vegetable crop in Nigeria.