Enzyme-assisted extraction enhancing the umami taste amino acids recovery from several cultivated mushrooms

Widely targeted metabolomics analysis reveals dynamic changes in metabolites of 'Hass' avocado during postharvest ripening period

Avocado (Persea americana Mill) is a climacteric fruit harvested at the green stage that ripens postharvest to become edible. The 'Hass' cultivar, known for its rich, buttery flavor and pear-shaped appearance, was studied for metabolite changes during postharvest ripening using UPLC-MS/MS approach. The 16-day ripening period could be divided into three stages: evolution (days 1-9), edible ripe (days 10-15) and overripe (day 16). A total of 1397 metabolites were identified across 13 classes. Among them, amino acids transitioned from conjugated to free forms, while sugars converted to monosaccharides, enhancing savory and sweet tastes. The concentration of certain secondary metabolites like terpenes, coumarins, and alkaloids increased, likely supporting antimicrobial defense, alongside a substantial increase in lipid content. Additionally, 20 compounds were screened as markers for edible ripeness. This study provides valuable insights into avocado postharvest ripening and offers references for optimizing shelf-life.

Umami Enhancing Properties of Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Mycelium of Flammulina velutipes Cultured on Potato Pulp

The aim of this study was to hydrolyze cultivated fungal mycelium and to evaluate the effect on its taste. Potato pulp, a by-product of the potato starch industry, was therefore successfully utilized as a substrate for submerged cultivation of Flammulina velutipes, yielding a product with an estimated fungal content of 83% ± 3%. The fermentation increased the protein content from 5.3 ± 0.4 g/100 g DM to 13.9 ± 0.1 g/100 g DM with a biological protein value of 86. The fermentate was enzymatically hydrolyzed by Corolase APC-peptidase. After optimization of the hydrolysis conditions, a degree of hydrolysis (DH) of 75.1% ± 1.0% was achieved. The protein hydrolysis increased the contents of free glutamate more than 20-fold from 8.7 ± 0.1 mg/L to 188.7 ± 1.2 mg/L. Elevated glutamate levels led to an umami taste perception in aqueous solution and taste-enhancing properties in vegetable broth. Noteworthy, the fermentate itself exhibited an intrinsic peptidase activity. Without addition of auxiliary peptidases, mycelial enzymes caused a DH of 33.9% ± 0.7% and a free glutamate content of 99.1 ± 0.7 mg/L. For these samples, an increase in umami taste was only observed in vegetable broth, but not in water, indicating taste-enhancing properties but low umami taste. In addition to the nutritional and health benefits of fungi, their hydrolysates are of great interest for use as a protein booster with flavor-enhancing properties.

ATR-FTIR spectroscopy combined with metabolomics to analyze the taste components of boletus bainiugan at different drying temperatures

Boletus bainiugan has a unique flavor profile, its quality is correlated with metabolites. Herein, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) is utilized to characterize the free amino acid and organic acid of Boletus bainiugan at different drying temperatures. Attenuated total internal reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy is employed to identify Boletus bainiugan with various treatment and to predicted compounds. The metabolome includes 72 amino acids and 64 organic acids, wherein, 11 important taste components are analyzed the changes with drying temperatures. The residual convolutional neural network (ResNet) model achieves 100 % accuracy for Boletus bainiugan with distinct treatment. The partial least squares regression (PLSR) model accurately predicted the contents of 11 compounds with an optimal R2 P of 0.975 and a best residual predictive deviation (RPD) of 4.404. The ATR-FTIR spectroscopy coupled with metabolomics can be used as a good tool to estimate the taste enhancers of Boletus bainiugan.

An in-depth review: Unraveling the extraction, structure, bio-functionalities, target molecules, and applications of pectic polysaccharides

Pectic polysaccharides have long been a challenging subject of research in the field of macromolecular science, given their complex structures and wide range of biological effects. However, the extensive exploration of pectic polysaccharides has been limited due to the intricacy of their structures. In this comprehensive review, we aim to provide a thorough summary of the existing knowledge on pectic polysaccharides, with a particular focus on aspects such as classification, extraction methodologies, structural analysis, elucidation of biological activities, and exploration of target molecules and signaling pathways. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and research achievements, we strive to establish a comprehensive and systematic framework that can serve as a reference and guide for further investigations into pectic polysaccharides. Furthermore, this review delves into the applications of pectic polysaccharides beyond their fundamental attributes and characteristics, exploring their potential in fields such as materials, food, and pharmaceuticals. We pay special attention to the promising opportunities for pectic polysaccharides in the pharmaceutical domain and provide an overview of related drug development research. The aim of this review is to facilitate a holistic understanding of pectic polysaccharides by incorporating multifaceted research, providing valuable insights for further in-depth investigations into this significant polymer.

Effects of combined drying techniques and cellulase hydrolysis on the nutritional value and sensory properties of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes)

Dried shiitake mushrooms offer rich nutritional value and unique sensory properties, prompting further investigation. The effects of different drying techniques (hot air drying (HAD), infrared hot air drying (IRHAD), pulsed vacuum drying (PVD), vacuum freeze drying (VFD), and natural drying (ND)) combined with enzymatic hydrolysis on the release of flavor compounds and nutrients from shiitake mushrooms were explored. The combination of HAD with cellulase hydrolysis yielded notably high levels of umami amino acids (5.4723 ± 0.1501 mg/g) and 5'-nucleotides (4.0536 ± 0.0062 mg/g), and superior volatile flavors. Combined with cellulase hydrolysis, IRHAD achieved the highest level of total sugars (6.57 ± 0.34 mg/mL), VFD resulted in the greatest soluble protein content (153.21 ± 0.23 μg/mL), PVD yielded the highest total phenolics content (93.20 ± 0.41 μg GAE/mL), and ND produced the maximum reducing sugar content (5.79 ± 0.13 mg/mL). This study addresses crucial gap in the post-drying processing of shiitake mushrooms, offering valuable insights for further product development of shiitake mushrooms.

The manufacturing process provides green teas with differentiated nonvolatile profiles and influences the deterioration of flavor during storage at room temperature

Hundreds of green tea products are available on the tea market and exhibit different characteristics. In the present study, seven types of green tea were processed, and their nonvolatile profiles were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Non-spreading green tea contained higher concentrations of catechins and flavonoid glycosides, but lower concentrations of amino acids, caffeine, and theaflavins. Non-rolling green teas with a straight appearance contained higher concentrations of flavonoid glycosides and theaflavins. In contrast, leaf-rolling green teas contained much lower concentrations of flavonoid glycosides and catechins. These seven green tea qualities all decreased following prolonged storage, concurrent with increasing concentrations of proanthocyanidins, catechins dimers, theaflavins, and organic acids. The leaf-rolling green teas exhibited reduced levels of deterioration during storage in terms of their nonvolatile profile and sensory quality. Findings show that moderate destruction on tea leaves during green tea processing is beneficial to both tea flavor and quality maintenance during storage.

Umami Characteristics and Taste Improvement Mechanism of Meat

Taste is one of the five senses that detect vital information about what we are eating. Comprehending taste is crucial for enhancing the flavor of foodstuffs and high-protein foods like meat. Umami has global recognition as the fifth elementary taste, alongside sweetness, sourness, saltiness, and bitterness. Umami compounds are known to enhance the sensation of recognized flavors such as salty, sweet, bitter, and others. This could end up in greater food consumption by consumption by consumers. With the rising global population, meat consumption is rising and is projected to double by 2025. It is crucial to comprehend the umami mechanism of meat and meat products, identify novel compounds, and employ laboratory methodologies to gather varied information. This knowledge will aid in the development of new consumer products. Although very limited information is available on umami taste and compounds in meat through research data. This article discusses recent advancements in umami compounds in other foodstuff as well as meat to aid in designing future research and meat product development. Moreover, another objective of this review is to learn present techniques in foodstuffs to enhance umami taste and utilize that knowledge in meat products.

Oilseed meal proteins: From novel extraction methods to nanocarriers of bioactive compounds

The global demand for animal proteins is predicted to increase twofold by 2050. This has led to growing environmental and health apprehensions, thereby prompting the appraisal of alternative protein sources. Oilseed meals present a promising alternative due to their abundance in global production and inherent dietary protein content. The alkaline extraction remains the preferred technique for protein extraction from oilseed meals in commercial processes. However, the combination of innovative techniques has proven to be more effective in the recovery and functional modification of oilseed meal proteins (OMPs), resulting in improved protein quality and reduced allergenicity and environmental hazards. This manuscript explores the extraction of valuable proteins from sustainable sources, specifically by-products from the oil processing industry, using emerging technologies. Chemical structure, nutritional value, and functional properties of the main OMPs are evaluated with a particular focus on their potential application as nanocarriers for bioactive compounds.

Changes in flavor and biological activities of Lentinula edodes hydrolysates after Maillard reaction

This study aimed to elucidate how the Maillard reaction (MR) affects the flavor and bioactivities of Lentinula edodes hydrolysates (LEHs). Changes in flavor were investigated using non-targeted metabolomics techniques (GC-MS and LC-MS/MS) and sensory evaluation. Simultaneously, UV absorption, fluorescence, and FT-IR spectra were used to characterize the process of MR. We also evaluated the effects of MR on the antioxidant activity, hypoglycemic activity and antimicrobial activity of LEHs in vitro. The results revealed that MR produced many volatile aldehydes and ketones and decreased the content of most amino acids, sugars and flavonoids in the LEHs while increasing the content of l-theanine and succinic acid. MRPs had a strong caramel and like-meat flavor and an obvious improvement in umami, taste continuity, and total acceptability. Furthermore, MR improved the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of LEHs. This research establishes a theoretical foundation for MR in the deep processing of edible mushrooms.

A modified strategy to improve the dissolution of flavonoids from Artemisiae Argyi Folium using ultrasonic-assisted enzyme-deep eutectic solvent system

In this study, enzyme-deep eutectic solvent-assisted ultrasonic extraction technique (EnDUE) was developed for the efficient dissolution of flavonoids from Artemisiae Argyi Folium. The extraction results of Artemisiae Argyi Folium flavonoids (quercetin, luteolin, and isorhamnetin) were used as indicators to investigate the influencing factors through single factor experiment, Placket-burman design, and Box-behnken design, so as to obtain satisfactory yields. After systematic optimization, the optimal conditions for extraction of the target flavonoids were: Choline chloride/1,4-butanediol with a water content of 25%, cellulase+pectinase with a concentration of 1.6%, solid-liquid ratio of 1/32 g/mL, pH of 4.2, ultrasonic frequency of 80 kHz, ultrasonic power of 160 W, ultrasonic temperature of 40 °C, and ultrasonic time of 25 min, respectively, which derived a total yield of 8.06 ± 0.29 mg/g. Compared with the reference techniques, the proposed EnDUE technique showed significant advantages in the yield and extraction efficiency of flavonoids. In addition, after preliminary purification, the Artemisiae Argyi Folium flavonoids showed good antioxidant activity. Deep eutectic solvent (DES) can degrade the cell wall components and increase the action site of enzyme, and enzyme can promote the penetration of DES into the cell wall matrix, which is mutually beneficial to the dissolution of intracellular components. Therefore, the extraction technique proposed in this work (EnDUE) greatly promotes the dissolution of flavonoids from Artemisiae Argyi Folium, and provides theoretical support for the further application of plant flavonoids.

Exploring the correlation of metabolites changes and microbial succession in solid-state fermentation of Sichuan Sun-dried vinegar

BACKGROUND

The traditional Sichuan Sun-dried vinegar (SSV) with unique flavor and taste is believed to be generated by the solid-state fermentation craft. However, how microorganisms and their metabolites change along with fermentation has not yet been explored.

RESULTS

In this study, our results demonstrated that the middle and late stages of SSV fermentation were the periods showing the largest accumulation of organic acids and amino acids. Furthermore, in the bacterial community, the highest average relative abundance was Lactobacillus (ranging from 37.55 to 92.50%) in all fermentation stages, while Acetobacters ranked second position (ranging from 20.15 to 0.55%). The number of culturable lactic acid bacteria is also increased during fermentation process (ranging from 3.93 to 8.31 CFU/g). In fungal community, Alternaria (29.42%), Issatchenkia (37.56%) and Zygosaccharomyces (69.24%) were most abundant in different fermentation stages, respectively. Interestingly, Zygosaccharomyces, Schwanniomyces and Issatchenkia were first noticed as the dominant yeast genera in vinegar fermentation process. Additionally, spearman correlation coefficients exhibited that Lactobacillus, Zygosaccharomyces and Schwanniomyces were significant correlation with most metabolites during the fermentation, implying that these microorganisms might make a significant contribution to the flavor formation of SSV.

CONCLUSION

The unique flavor of SSV is mainly produced by the core microorganisms (Lactobacillus, Zygosaccharomyces and Schwanniomyces) during fermentation. This study will provide detailed information related to the structure of microorganism and correlation between changes in metabolites and microbial succession in SSV. And it will be very helpful for proposing a potential approach to monitor the traditional fermentation process.

Insights into the Flavor Differentiation between Two Wild Edible Boletus Species through Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses

Despite the popularity of wild edible mushrooms due to their delectable flavor and nutritional value, the mechanisms involved in regulating and altering their taste remain underexplored. In this study, we analyzed the metabolome and transcriptome of Boletus brunneissimus (B. brunneissimus) and Leccinum extremiorientale (L. extremiorientale), two Boletus species collected from different environments. Using UHPLC-MS, we annotated 644 peaks and identified 47 differential metabolites via OPLS-DA analysis. Eight of these were related to flavor, including L-Aspartic acid, Glycine, D-Serine, L-Serine, L-Histidine, Tryptophan, L-Isoleucine, Isoleucine, and alpha-D-Glucose. These differential metabolites were mainly concentrated in amino acid metabolism pathways. Transcriptome analysis revealed differential genes between B. brunneissimus and L. extremiorientale, which were enriched in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, as well as differential genes of the same Boletus species in different environments that were enriched in the ribosome pathway. The combination of metabolome and transcriptome analyses highlighted Glycine, L-Serine, and L-Aspartic acid as the key compounds responsible for the differences between the two Boletus species. Using the O2PLS model and Pearson's coefficient, we identified key genes that modulate the differences in metabolites between the two species. These results have significant implications for the molecular breeding of flavor in edible mushrooms.

Influence of different drying techniques on quality parameters of mushroom and its utilization in development of ready to cook food formulation

Three different drying methods: hot-air-drying (HAD), dehumidified drying (DD) and freeze drying (FD) were used to dry Indian white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus).  Dehumidified drying method has been proposed as an alternative technique  to improve the quality of dehydrated mushroom. Mushroom powder obtained by DD method had 33.29% protein, 17.21% uronic acid, and 10.93% ash content. It was  also a good source of ergosterol (422.18±5.80 mg/100 g dw), which is known as the precursor of Vitamin D2. Ethanolic extract of mushroom powder showed good antioxidant activity  with lower DPPH IC50 value (7.16±0.23 mg/mL) and also lower EC50 value of ABTS (4.36±0.04 mg/mL). Mushroom powder is added to ready to cook green gram based chilla mix (vegetable omelette mix) at 10%, 20% and 30% levels. The effect of incorporation of mushroom powder on quality characteristics of the formulation was studied. The results showed that the ready to cook mix containing 20% of mushroom powder had protein: 23.33 g; total dietary fiber: 10.75 g; ergosterol: 79.08 mg and also important minerals like calcium: 99.57 mg; potassium: 1203.49 mg; magnesium: 137.80 mg and zinc: 2.23 mg in 100 g of formulation. The formulated products were shelf-stable at ambient temperature for three months.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-023-05680-9.

Comparative Study of Different Protein Extraction Technologies Applied on Mushrooms By-products

Mushroom production is a growing sector as the demand for this product is increasing. The quantity of waste and by-products generated along the supply chain is however considerable (about 20% of the fresh weight is disposed). Although the recovery of chitosan from mushrooms has been extensively studied, little has been done to optimize the recovery of proteins, which make up to 20% of dry weight. In the present work, six different by-products were studied for their crude composition and their protein fraction was characterized in detail. Then, a comparative study was conducted on three different extraction techniques (environmentally friendly aqueous extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and enzyme-assisted extraction). Enzyme-assisted extraction has proven to be the most efficient technique in terms of protein extraction yield, even though the protein fraction is extracted in the form of peptides and not whole proteins. The lowest degree of hydrolysis is instead given by the ultrasound-assisted extraction, which however shows a rather high degree of racemization which decreases the quality of the proteins. The aqueous extraction, despite the low extraction yield, gave the purest protein extracts.

Variations of nonvolatile taste components of mushrooms with different operating conditions and parameters from farm to fork

Mushroom is a sustainable food option and a meat substitute which yet needs some strategies to enhance sensory attributes. Especially, their taste characteristics (nonvolatile taste components: soluble sugars, organic acids, free amino acids, and 5'-nucleotides) can vary significantly due to operating conditions and parameters during different stages from farm to fork. This review is aimed to provide an overall view of the determined effects of operating conditions and parameters for mushroom taste attributes, suggestions for future research from lacking variables, and some recommendations for improving the taste perception of mushrooms. Taste compounds of mushrooms alter differently based on cultivation (species, cultivation or maturity stage, substrate composition, part, grade, mycelium strain), cooking (cooking method, time, temperature), preservation, and post-harvest storage conditions (drying parameters, pretreatment, preservation method, gamma irradiation, packaging, storage time and temperature). The dominant tastes of mushrooms given by sweet and umami taste active substances can be enhanced significantly with proper control of parameters during cultivation, cooking, drying, or post-harvest storage. The parameters and variations organized in this review can be used to develop a mathematical model for obtaining optimum taste attributes of mushrooms and mushroom-based meat alternatives and to discover the variables of mushroom species not studied yet.

Comparison of non-volatile flavor compounds in Stropharia rugosoannulata soup processed by different methods

In this study, we investigated the non-volatile flavor compounds (5'-nucleotides, free amino acids, organic acids and soluble sugars) in Stropharia rugosoannulata soup under different processing treatments. S. rugosoannulata soups were first obtained from S. rugosoannulata powder of three different particle sizes under both thermal and non-thermal treatments. Then, the effects of processing methods on non-volatile compounds in these S. rugosoannulata soups were investigated. Specifically, the non-thermal treatment of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) resulted in high levels of equivalent umami concentration (EUC, 827.44-1411.79 mg/100 g DM); ultrasonic treatment (UT) and homogenization (HG) led to high concentrations of soluble sugars (15.58-30.48 mg/g DM); while hot treatment (HT) contributed to high contents of total organic acids (65.52-98.39 mg/g DM). Besides, moderate fine grinding of S. rugosoannulata powder (P2) facilitated the release FAAs (free amino acids) and soluble sugars in the soup. These results suggested that HHP-P2 is beneficial to the preservation of non-volatile compounds in S. rugosoannulata soup. Our findings may improve the utilization of S. rugosoannulata in the soup industry.

A critical look at challenges and future scopes of bioactive compounds and their incorporations in the food, energy, and pharmaceutical sector

Bioactive compounds refer to secondary metabolites extracted from plants, fungi, microbes, or animals. Besides having pharmacological or toxicological effects on organisms leading to utilization in food and pharmaceutical industries, the discovery of novel properties of such compounds has led to the diversification of their applications, ranging from cosmetics and functionalized biomaterials to bioremediation and alternate fuels. Conventional time-consuming and solvent-intensive methods of extraction are increasingly being replaced by green solvents such as ionic liquids, supercritical fluids, and deep eutectic solvents, as well as non-conventional methods of extraction assisted by microwaves, pulse electric fields, enzymes, ultrasound, or pressure. These methods, along with advances in characterization and optimization strategies, have boosted the commercial viability of extraction especially from agrowastes and organic residues, promoting a sustainable circular economy. Further development of microfluidics, optimization models, nanoencapsulation, and metabolic engineering are expected to overcome certain limitations that restrict the growth of this field, in the context of improving screening, extraction, and economy of processes, as well as retaining biodiversity and enhancing the stability and functionality of such compounds. This review is a compilation of the various extraction and characterization methods employed for bioactive compounds and covers major applications in food, pharmacy, chemicals, energy, and bioremediation. Major limitations and scope of improvement are also discussed.

Improved Foods Using Enzymes from Basidiomycetes

Within the kingdom of fungi, the division Basidiomycota represents more than 30,000 species, some with huge genomes indicating great metabolic potential. The fruiting bodies of many basidiomycetes are appreciated as food (“mushrooms”). Solid-state and submerged cultivation processes have been established for many species. Specifically, xylophilic fungi secrete numerous enzymes but also form smaller metabolites along unique pathways; both groups of compounds may be of interest to the food processing industry. To stimulate further research and not aim at comprehensiveness in the broad field, this review describes some recent progress in fermentation processes and the knowledge of fungal genetics. Processes with potential for food applications based on lipases, esterases, glycosidases, peptidases and oxidoreductases are presented. The formation and degradation of colourants, the degradation of harmful food components, the formation of food ingredients and particularly of volatile and non-volatile flavours serve as examples. In summary, edible basidiomycetes are foods—and catalysts—for food applications and rich donors of genes to construct heterologous cell factories for fermentation processes. Options arise to support the worldwide trend toward greener, more eco-friendly and sustainable processes.

Comparison of the Nutritional and Taste Characteristics of 5 Edible Fungus Powders Based on the Composition of Hydrolyzed Amino Acids and Free Amino Acids

The nutritional characteristics and taste of some edible fungus powders were scientifically evaluated and compared. Five common edible fungus powders were used as test materials (Agrocybe chaxinggu edible fungus powder, Pleurotus citrinopileatus edible fungus powder, Flammulina velutipes edible fungus powder, Lentinus edodes edible fungus powder, and Hericium erinaceus edible fungus powder). The hydrolyzed amino acid and free amino acid content were measured by an automatic amino acid analyzer, and the ratios of hydrolyzed amino acid and free amino acid components and the taste characteristics of these eatables were systematically compared. The results showed that the total amount of hydrolyzed amino acids contained in the 5 edible fungus powders was between 2.583 and 14.656 g/100 g. The total amount of free amino acids contained in the 5 edible fungus powders was between 0.550 and 2.612 g/100 g. Comparative analysis of the mass fractions and composition of amino acids indicated that Pleurotus citrinopileatus edible fungus powder best met the ideal protein standard. The taste characteristics of protein were evaluated by calculating the taste active value (TAV) of taste-producing free amino acids. The most significant TAV values of the 5 edible fungus powders appeared in glutamic acid, and this amino acid is an umami amino acid. Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested that four principal components could reflect all the information on the free amino acids with a total cumulative variance contribution rate of 100%, and three principal components could reflect most of the information on the hydrolyzed amino acids with a total cumulative variance contribution rate of 99.143%, which could represent the main trends of free amino acids and hydrolyzed acids in edible fungus powder. The comprehensive evaluation model was established, and the comprehensive score indicated that Agrocybe chaxinggu edible fungus powder had the best comprehensive amino acid quality.

Effect of coating on flavor metabolism of fish under different storage temperatures

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Coating could reduce the accumulation of aldehydes and the accumulation of alcohols during fish storage process.

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Coating could slow down the accumulation of off-taste FFAs during fish storage process.

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GEO-gelatin coating (GGC) worked better than gelatin coating (GC) in maintaining fish flavor.

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Metabolic mechanisms of fish flavor at different storage temperatures were different.

Two edible coatings (gelatin coating and ginger essential oil-gelatin coating) were prepared to maintain the flavor quality of fish fillets at two storage temperatures (4 °C and 25 °C). The effects of coating on fish fillets were evaluated by detecting the physical properties, microstructure, microbial properties, volatile flavor and taste flavor of fish. In the same coating method, fish fillets stored at 4 °C showed better effect than that at 25 °C on maintain water content, color and texture, however, fish fillets stored at 25 °C were closer to fresh fish in volatile flavor and taste flavor than that at 4 °C; whatever the storage temperature, coating could slow down the growth of fish microorganisms, maintain water content, color, texture, volatile flavor and taste flavor of fish fillets; GGC exhibited better effect on maintain flavor quality than GC.

Consumer's perception and expected liking of labels of burgers with sodium reduction and addition of mushroom flavor enhancer

This study investigated consumers' perception of labels of burgers with sodium reduction and/or addition of mushroom flavor enhancer. Six visual stimuli were created using a factorial design with sodium content (regular, sodium-reduced, and sodium-reduced plus health claim) and flavor enhancer (monosodium glutamate (MSG) and mushroom extract) as factors. Consumers answered an attitudinal questionnaire and evaluated the stimuli through expected liking and check-all-that-apply (CATA) questions. Three consumers' clusters were identified, which associated positive attributes to labels of burgers with mushroom flavor enhancer and negative attributes to labels of MSG-burgers, regardless of sodium content. The main positive drivers of liking were "I would buy", "attractive", "innovative", "tasty", and "contain fewer additives", which were associated with burgers with mushroom flavor enhancer, while "contain additives", "processed", "artificial", "unhealthy", and "not attractive" were the negative drivers of liking that should be modified in a reformulation to increase liking. This study provides valuable information for the development of healthier burgers and their positioning in the market.

Fermentation characteristics of Pixian broad bean paste in closed system of gradient steady-state temperature field

A closed system of gradient steady-state temperature field (GSTF) was constructed to ferment Pixian broad bean paste (PBP). The contents of physicochemical factors and organic acids in the fermentation under GSTF (FG) were closer to those in the traditional fermentation (TF). The taste intensities of 8 free amino acids in the FG were higher than those in the constant temperature fermentation (CTF), but 14 in the TF showed the highest among the processes of FG, CTF and TF. The FG product had the most volatiles with 87, and its flavor properties were more stable. The FG produced great effects on the microbe evolutions especially improved the fungal diversity. Bacillus were identified as the core microbes in the FG while the roles of Staphylococcus, Lactobacillus and Pantoea were strengthened. The results indicated that the fermentation characteristics in the FG had been further improved compared with the CTF.

Mango Peel Pectin: Recovery, Functionality and Sustainable Uses

Concerns regarding the overconsumption of natural resources has provoked the recovery of biopolymers from food processing biomass. Furthermore, the current market opportunity for pectin in other areas has increased, necessitating the search for alternative pectin resources. This is also a step towards the sustainable and circular green economy. Mango peel is the byproduct of agro-processing and has been used for high value-added components such as polysaccharide biopolymers. Pectin derived from the peel is yet to be exploited to its greatest extent, particularly in terms of its separation and physiochemical properties, which limit its applicability to dietary fiber in culinary applications. The functionality of the mango peel pectin (MPP) strongly depends on the molecular size and degree of esterification which highlight the importance of isolation and characterisation of pectin from this novel resource. This article therefore provides a useful overview of mango peel as a potential biomaterial for the recovery of MPP. Different extraction techniques and the integrated recovery were also discussed. The utilisation of MPP in different industrial schemes are also detailed out from different perspectives such as the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. This review convincingly expresses the significance of MPP, providing a sustainable opportunity for food and pharmaceutical development.

Enzymolysis-Microwave-Assisted Hydrodistillation for Extraction of Volatile Oil from Atractylodes Chinensis and Its Hypoglycemic Activity in vitro

BACKGROUND

Atractylodes chinensis (family Asteraceae) is a perennial herb with many pharmacological effects.

OBJECTIVE

Extraction of volatile oil from Atractylodes chinensis was optimized and its hypoglycemic activities were studied.

METHODS

Enzymolysis-microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (EMAHD) was adopted to extract the volatile oil, and the technology was optimized using a single-factor experiment that incorporated response surface methodology (RSM). The extraction rates of volatile oil by EMAHD, microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD), and hydrodistillation (HD) methods were compared at different times. The ingredients of Atractylodes chinensis volatile oil were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze the microstructural changes in Atractylodes chinensis residue before and after extraction. The inhibition of α-amylase activity was determined.

RESULTS

The obtained optimal extraction conditions for EMAHD were as follows: enzyme concentration 1.6%, pH 7, enzymolysis time 20 min, enzymolysis temperature 50°C, liquid-solid ratio 30:1, microwave power 455 W, and microwave time 40 min. The levels of the main ingredients and the in vitro inhibition of α-amylase activities were higher for Atractylodes chinensis volatile oil extracted by EMAHD than by HD or MAHD. The powder residue of Atractylodes chinensis remaining after EMAHD showed a ruptured and collapsed cell structure, indicating accelerated dissolution of the volatile oil.

CONCLUSIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS

EMAHD is deemed a method with many advantages for extraction of volatile oil from Atractylodes chinensis. The volatile oil of Atractylodes chinensis is a promising component for treating hyperglycemia.

Enzymatic hydrolysis of non-animal proteins for improving nutritional and sensory properties of foods

Taste and aroma of foods are recognized properties that contribute to increasing food acceptance and consumption, and methods for improving these attributes are highly sought after. For this, natural compounds are widely investigated and include peptides from fungi and plant proteins, which are alternative sources of protein in vegan and vegetarian diets. According to the specificity of peptidases and the protein substrates, a variety of peptides can be produced from enzymatic hydrolysis, which is an important advantage compared with chemical hydrolysis. Therefore, the following article discusses the use of proteolytic enzymes to produce protein hydrolysate from nonanimal sources for improving the sensory properties and nutritional value of foods. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The purpose of this letter is to discuss the use of proteolytic enzymes as an eco-friendly alternative to produce protein hydrolysate from nonanimal sources for improving the sensory properties and nutritional value of foods.

Extraction, Characterization, and Applications of Pectins from Plant By-Products

Currently, pectins are widely used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries, mainly as texturizing, emulsifying, stabilizing, and gelling agents. Pectins are polysaccharides composed of a large linear segment of α-(1,4) linked d-galactopyranosyluronic acids interrupted by β-(1,2)-linked l-rhamnoses and ramified by short chains composed of neutral hexoses and pentoses. The characteristics and applications of pectins are strongly influenced by their structures depending on plant species and tissues but also extraction methods. The aim of this review is therefore to highlight the structures of pectins and the various methods used to extract them, including conventional ones but also microwave heating, ultrasonic treatment, and dielectric barrier discharge techniques, assessing physico-chemical parameters which have significant effects on pectin characteristics and applications as techno-functional and bioactive agents.

New insights into the flavoring potential of cricket (Acheta domesticus) and mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) protein hydrolysates and their Maillard products

Insect proteins have an earthy-like flavor and have not shown great flavor potential for food applications so far. In this study, insect proteins of cricket Acheta domesticus and mealworm Tenebrio molitor larvae were first enzymatically hydrolyzed using two peptidase preparations (Flavourzyme1000L and ProteaseA "Amano"2SD). Xylose was then added to facilitate Maillard reactions (30 min, T = 98 °C, 1% (w/v) xylose). A comprehensive sensory evaluation showed that both the hydrolysis and the Maillard reactions changed the flavor description of the samples significantly to more complex and savory-like taste profiles (27 descriptors for cricket and 39 descriptors for mealworm protein). In addition, 38 odor-active molecules were identified using gas chromatography-olfactometry (1 alcohol, 5 acids, 11 aldehydes, 5 ketones and 16 heterocyclic compounds). The results showed impressively that the flavoring potential of insect proteins was significantly enhanced with respective processing.

Strategies to Increase the Biological and Biotechnological Value of Polysaccharides from Agricultural Waste for Application in Healthy Nutrition

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in the extraction and identification of new high added-value compounds from the agro-food industry that will valorize the great amount of by-products generated. Many of these bioactive compounds have shown beneficial effects for humans in terms of disease prevention, but they are also of great interest in the food industry due to their effect of extending the shelf life of foods by their well-known antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. For this reason, an additional research objective is to establish the best conditions for obtaining these compounds from complex by-product structures without altering their activity or even increasing it. This review highlights recent work on the identification and characterization of bioactive compounds from vegetable by-products, their functional activity, new methodologies for the extraction of bioactive compounds from vegetables, possibly increasing their biological activity, and the future of the global functional food and nutraceuticals market.

Consumer acceptance of egg white partially substituted with mushrooms and mushroom-egg white flavor pairing

Mushroom possesses a distinctive sensory quality and unique nutrients. Its pairing with egg white and consumer acceptance has never been investigated. In this study, formulated mushroom-egg white patty prototypes (white and crimini mushrooms at 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, either oven roasted or steamed) were evaluated by 380 participants for acceptance and intensity of nine sensory attributes. Mushroom-egg white patty prototypes received positive hedonic scores for overall acceptance and the likeability of overall flavor, mushroom flavor, meaty flavor, egg white flavor, overall texture, and firmness. Consumer overall acceptance was most strongly and positively correlated with overall flavor liking, followed by overall appearance and overall texture likeability. Additionally, the likeability of flavor pairing between mushroom and egg white was rated positively across all 16 patties, indicating a good flavor match of mushroom and egg white. Consumer hedonic levels toward mushroom patties were significantly (p ≤ .05) impacted by cooking method, mushroom type, and mushroom level. The addition of mushroom was acceptable up to 20%, with steam method and crimini mushroom most preferred. The results provided new insights into consumer attitudes and potentially important sensory factors affecting the acceptability of mushroom-egg white patties, consequently increasing the utilization and consumption of mushrooms and mushroom-blended products.

Recent advances in continuous extraction of bioactive ingredients from food-processing wastes by pulsed electric fields

The food processing produces a great amount of wastes that are rich in nutrients. Extraction is the first and most important step in recovery and purification of active ingredients from these wastes. The traditional extraction technologies are known to be laborious and time-consuming, require large volumes of organic solvent, have high temperature and energy costs, and obtain relatively low extraction efficiency. In recent 10 years, a novel, efficient and green extraction method, pulsed electric fields (PEFs) continuous extraction, which is emerging non-thermal food-processing technology, has shown great promise in extracting these food wastes. This work gives an overview of development in the use of PEF continuous extraction for obtaining bioactive ingredients from food-processing wastes. The technology is described in detail with respect to the mechanism, equipment, critical parameters. The protocols and applications of the technology in the extraction of food-processing wastes are comprehensively summarized. Finally, the degradation of bioactive ingredients, industrial applications, problem of novel food, consumer acceptance, and future trends of the technology are discussed. The PEF continuous extraction is considered as the ideal technology of high efficiency and low temperature for natural ingredients extraction. The technology possesses many remarkable potential applications in the food-processing industries compared to the conventional extraction methods.