3.4. Non-conventional dough improvers
3.4.1. Honey
Addo (1997) examined the effects of honey on the
rheological properties of frozen wheat flour dough and
found that at 4–6% (flour basis), liquid or dry honey
improved the rheological properties of frozen dough by
increasing the R/E values. The extensibility of frozen
dough containing liquid honey increased significantly over
control dough without additive. This effect, however, was
less pronounced when dry honey was used. Honey appears
to protect the gluten proteins from damage during freezing,
possibly due to its hygroscopic properties. Liquid and dry
honey also significantly decrease staling.
Addition of honey at levels from 4% to 12% improved
the baking quality of frozen dough. Honey also has a
desirable effect on the colour development of crust and
crumb of bread from frozen dough. Sensory evaluation by
a consumer panel also revealed that consumers preferred
the colour of bread made from frozen dough containing 6-
8% honey and were equally satisfied with either fresh bread
or bread made from frozen dough to which honey was
added (Addo, 1997).