Evaluation of the Simple Wetting Method to Reduce Total Cyanogens in Flaxseed

Abstract

A simple wetting method used to significantly reduce the % total cyanide remaining (TCR) in cassava was evaluated for its applicability to flaxseed. An optimal simple wetting method (SWM) in terms of time, temperature, and exposed surface area (SA) depth was developed for reducing the % TCR in ground flaxseed. The optimal parameters were a treatment time of 12 h, an ambient temperature of approximately 22°C, and an increased exposed SA achieved through spreading the wetted flaxseed mixture out to a thin depth of 0.5 cm. General mixed model analysis confirmed that the variables time and SA were significant factors in minimizing the %TCR in the optimal model. Pairwise comparison showed that the 0.5 cm depth had the greatest effect. The desirable lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) was significantly retained, as determined by HPLC quantification of pre- and post-processing levels.