LAUSR

In this study, we evaluated the effect of some Romanian local plant raw materials on the rheological, physicochemical, and sensory properties of natural yogurt. These plants were added as a 2% powder in the set yogurt recipe and the finished products obtained under the same conditions were compared to a control sample. By adding plant powders, the rheological properties of yogurt were improved, the syneresis was reduced, and the water holding capacity of the yogurt samples was increased. The highest values for rheological properties were obtained for yogurt with buckwheat flour (YBF) and the lowest values for the same parameters were obtained for control yogurt (YC). The lowest value of syneresis was obtained for YBF, followed by the yogurt with beetroot powder (YBP), and the yogurt with acorn flour (YAF). The best results from sensory and physicochemical point of view were recorded by the yogurt with added 2% buckwheat flour. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The results of the study lead to determining the formulation of a novel yogurt, with the best sensory acceptance, rheological, and physicochemical properties. Because of its universal popularity, there is a high economic importance in diversifying yogurt products. The use of local vegetable resources as raw materials for obtaining yogurt leads to their superior capitalization, as well as obtaining finished products with beneficial effects on the health of the consumers. Scientific impact of this study is by obtaining innovative products using domestic raw materials that not only improve consumer health, but also increase final product shelf life. Socio‐economic impact of the project is to increase consumer confidence in finished products and reduce losses by lowering the number of market returned products and by also increasing turnover.