Published Paper Details:

Statistics shows that, in India, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months stood at 55%. Early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding can prevent nearly 99,499 deaths of children every year due to diarrhoea and pneumonia. Exclusive breastfeeding is the best way to accomplish optimal growth and health in infants. An innovative nutritious laddu was standardised which had a unique blend of galactagogues which helps in inducing or enhancing breast milk production. This product was rich in protein, fibre, iron, calcium and was gluten-free. It was prepared using galactagogue such as gum arabic (dink), fenugreek, ajwain, suwa powder and seeds like lotus seed (makhana), chia, pumpkin, sesame and flax seeds. Studies indicate that fenugreek, carom seeds or ajwain have properties of galactagogues, which helps in breast milk production in mothers postpartum. A shelf life study was done using a scoring test on a 7-point sensory scale for a period of one month and was found to be highly acceptable. The evaluation was performed on sensory attributes such as colour, taste, texture, aftertaste and overall acceptability. The product was wrapped in chocolate foil, packed in Zip lock stand up pouch made with kraft material with inner polythene lamination. Other aspects covered in the study were labelling, budgeting and marketing.