Although there are many studies on the application of diatomaceous earth for insect control in wheat grains, the information about the residue that remains in the flour after grinding, even with partial removal in the cleaning step, and if this changes the technological quality are restricted. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and functional properties of wheat flour treated with diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth of two commercial brands codified as DE1 and DE2, were used. Wheat flour type I was purchased at the local market. DE1 and DE2 were added in doses zero, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0g kg-1 of wheat flour, homogenized in a blender and the analysis of falling number, alveography, farinograph, color analysis and experimental baking test were carried out. The results were analyzed by Analysis of variance and comparisons of means by Tukey's test at 5% significance level. The diatomaceous earth added in doses up to 2g kg-1 directly into the flour affects the physical and functional properties. The alveograph is effective to predict changes in physical properties of wheat flour. The changes more pronounced in wheat flour physical properties are color component lightness and gluten strength (W), while in the baking test were points score and crumb color component lightness.
Triticum aestivum; alveography; baking; points score
