Identification of Important Aroma Components and Sensory Profiles of Minimally Processed (Unroasted) and Conventionally Roasted Dark Chocolates

Roasting is an important unit operation for the development of characteristic chocolate aroma during manufacturing. However, there is an increase in interest in minimally processed chocolate products due to their potential positive health benefits. The odor-important compounds and sensory characteristics of minimally processed (unroasted) and conventionally roasted dark chocolates were determined by gas chromatography-olfactometry, aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA), and stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA). Except for acetic acid, all odorants had higher odor-activity values (OAVs) in roasted chocolate. Acetic acid, developed during fermentation and drying, had the highest OAV in both chocolates but was better preserved in unroasted chocolate. Compounds making a greater aroma impact on roasted chocolate compared with unroasted chocolate included dimethyl trisulfide, 2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine, and 3-methylbutanal. Nine significant sensory attributes in unroasted and roasted chocolates were identified. Vinegar (aroma) and roasted (aroma and aroma by mouth), sweet (taste), and hardness (texture) attributes differed between unroasted and roasted chocolates. The results of this study enforce the embracement of low thermal processes to showcase the inherent flavor potential of cacao beans but also to support the concept of chocolate "terroir" by potentially preserving important aroma compounds developed during fermentation.

Nutrient and Maillard reaction product concentrations of commercially available pet foods and treats

Thermal processing is used to produce most commercial pet foods and treats to improve safety, shelf life, nutritional characteristics, texture, and nutrient digestibility. However, heat treatments can degrade protein quality by damaging essential amino acids, as well as contribute to the Maillard reaction. The Maillard reaction forms melanoidins that favorably improve food qualities (e.g., color, flavor, aroma), but also form Maillard reaction products (MRP) and advanced glycation end-products that may negatively affect health. Because commercial pet diets are frequently fed to domestic cats and dogs throughout their lifetimes, it is critical to quantify MRP concentrations and understand the variables that influence their formation so future diets may be formulated with that in mind. Because few research studies on MRP in pet diets have been conducted, the goals of this study were to measure the MRP in commercial pet foods and treats, estimate pet MRP intake, and correlate MRP with dietary macronutrient concentrations. Fifty-three dry and wet dog foods, dog treats, and cat foods were analyzed for dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, acid-hydrolyzed fat, total dietary fiber, and gross energy using standard techniques. MRP were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4. Dry foods had lower reactive lysine concentrations and reactive lysine: total lysine ratios (indicator of damage) than wet foods. Wet foods had more fructoselysine (FRUC) than dry foods; however, dry dog treats contained more FRUC than wet dog treats. The greatest 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF) concentrations were measured in dry and wet dog foods, whereas the lowest HMF concentrations were measured in dry and wet cat foods. Based on dietary concentrations and estimated food intakes, dogs and cats fed wet foods are more likely to consume higher carboxymethyllysine and FRUC concentrations than those fed dry foods. However, dogs fed wet foods are more likely to consume higher HMF concentrations than those fed dry foods. In cats, those fed dry foods would consume higher HMF concentrations than those fed wet foods. We demonstrated that pet foods and treats contain highly variable MRP concentrations and depend on diet/treat type. In general, higher MRP concentrations were measured in wet pet foods and dry treats. While these findings are valuable, in vivo testing is needed to determine if and how MRP consumption affect pet health.

Identification of Rotundone as an Important Contributor to the Flavor of Oak-Aged Spirits

Experiments were conducted to identify a compound responsible for a spicy, woody, incense-like odor note in oak-aged spirits. The target compound was extracted from oak wood and various oak-aged spirits and analyzed by multidimensional (heart-cut) gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–olfactometry (MD–GC–MS–O), and was unambiguously identified as the sesquiterpene ketone, 5-isopropenyl-3,8-dimethyl-3,4,5,6,7,8-hexadydro-1(2H)-azulenone (rotundone). Quantitation of the trace-level target compound was done by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA) in a variety of oak-aged spirits, including bourbon, rye, Tennessee whiskey, scotch, rum, and tequila. The content of rotundone was found to increase as a function of years of barrel aging for 4-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons obtained from the same manufacturer, thus confirming its origin to be from oak. In addition, odor-activity values (OAVs) were compared for selected potent odorants, including rotundone, in the same 4-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons, which indicated the relative importance of rotundone in the overall flavor of oak-aged spirits.

Effect of post-harvest drying process on chlorogenic acids, antioxidant activities and CIE-Lab color of Thai Arabica green coffee beans

Drying process affected the qualitative indicators of green coffees; chlorogenic acid (CGAs), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activities and CIE-lab color to varying degrees. Sun drying and heat pump drying resulted in comparable levels of CGAs and antioxidant activities in green coffees; however, color parameters, especially lightness (L*), differed. Correlation analyses indicated a relationship between specific CGAs, antioxidant activities and color parameters among coffees. PLS analysis revealed that the high contents of 5-caffeoylquinic acid in green coffees did not correlate with antioxidant activities. Results from CGAs contents and PCA analysis provided a linkage to previous research relating important components and quality indices of both green and roasted coffees as affected by postharvest drying. Results indicated that heat pump drying at 50 °C is a viable alternative and possibly superior to sun drying for preserving certain desirable chemical and physical characteristics of green coffee.

Identification of Characterizing Aroma Components of Roasted Chicory "Coffee" Brews

The roasted and ground root of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus), often referred to as chicory coffee, has served as a coffee surrogate for well over 2 centuries and is still in common use today. Volatile components of roasted chicory brews were identified by direct solvent extraction and solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE) combined with gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O), aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 46 compounds were quantitated by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA) and internal standard methods, and odor-activity values (OAVs) were calculated. On the basis of the combined results of AEDA and OAVs, rotundone was considered to be the most potent odorant in roasted chicory. On the basis of their high OAVs, additional predominant odorants included 3-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2(5H)-furanone (sotolon), 2-methylpropanal, 3-methylbutanal, 2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-6-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one (dihydromaltol), 1-octen-3-one, 2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine, 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furanone (HDMF), and 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone (maltol). Rotundone, with its distinctive aromatic woody, peppery, and "chicory-like" note was also detected in five different commercial ground roasted chicory products. The compound is believed to an important, distinguishing, and characterizing odorant in roasted chicory aroma. Collectively, a group of caramel- and sweet-smelling odorants, including dihydromaltol, cyclotene, maltol, HDMF, and sotolon, are also thought to be important aroma contributors to roasted chicory aroma.

Quantitation of Three Strecker Aldehydes from Enzymatic Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein Concentrates as Prepared by Various Conditions

The quantitation of three Strecker aldehydes-2-methypropanal (2-MP), 2-methylbutanal (2-MB), and 3-methylbutanal (3-MB)-from rice bran protein hydrolysate (RBPH) prepared under various conditions were investigated. The preparation conditions included hydrolysis time (0, 0.25, 2, 4, or 8 h), pH adjustment (pH 4.0, 7.0, or 10.0), and sugar addition (sucrose, glucose, or fructose). These conditions provide a significant potential for aroma generation from the Strecker degradation and Maillard reaction. The Strecker aldehyde quantitation was performed using gas chromatography (GC) with cryo-focusing technique. These combined techniques encourage the precise 2-MB and 3-MB quantitation. The highest concentrations of three Strecker aldehydes were found in RBPH that was prepared by alcalase hydrolysis at 4 h with fructose addition (RBPH-F) and adjusted to pH 7.0 before spray drying. Thirty-nine aroma-active compounds of RBPH-F were discovered using solid-phase microextraction coupled with GC-olfactometry.

Streamlined approach for careful and exhaustive aroma characterization of aged distilled liquors

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A careful and exhaustive streamlined method for aroma analysis of distilled liquors was developed.

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Perceived aromas did not differ between SAFE distillates and original (neat) liquors.

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Accurate quantitation was achieved for aroma compounds of high and intermediate volatility.

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Less accurate results were obtained by the streamlined method for semi-volatile components.

Solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE) is considered to be the best overall method to produce a “clean” aroma extract to avoid the loss of labile aroma compounds or the formation of thermally generated artifacts during gas chromatographic (GC) analysis. However, SAFE is both time consuming and labor intensive, especially when applied repeatedly for quantitation by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA), which requires the addition of isotopes within specific mass ratio ranges relative to target analytes. The streamlined approach described herein allows for accurate quantitation of odor-active components in liquor products with a single SAFE operation. The quantitative results achieved by this method are nearly identical for most odor-active components, except for specific semi-volatile constituents not recovered well by SAFE (e.g., vanillin and syringaldehyde in oak-aged liquors). The streamlined approach provides a simple and convenient way to expedite the careful and exhaustive study of the flavor chemistry of aged liquors.

Starch-Flavor Complexation Applied to 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline

The pleasant popcorn-like smelling compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) occurs naturally in many foods but is scarcely used as a flavoring agent due to its great instability. In this work, we evaluate the potential of high amylose corn starch to complex and stabilize 2AP. The methodology was first optimized using model compounds, 2-acetylpyridine and 2-acetyl-2-thiazoline, and then applied to 2AP. Complexes were successfully prepared and characterized using X-ray diffraction, gas chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. Loadings of up to 0.504 (±0.071)% 2AP were achieved, and storage studies showed that over half of the flavor was retained after 2 weeks at 0% relative humidity. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that 2AP can form amylose inclusion complexes and may lead to a method to effectively stabilize this labile aroma compound.

Effect of ethanol on flavor perception of Rum

This is the first sensory study to evaluate the effects of ethanol concentration on flavor perception of distilled spirits. Dilution series of two rums (R1 and R2) were evaluated to gain insight into the effects of ethanol concentration on the flavor perception of distilled spirits. Rums were diluted 1:2 (v/v) either with pure water to a final alcohol by volume (ABV) of 20% (R1-W and R2-W) or with an aqueous 40% ABV solution (R1-E and R2-E). The later dilution accounted for the flavor dilution effect while keeping the ethanol concentration the same as the original liquors. Descriptive sensory analysis was conducted on both dilution series and the original rums. Twenty-three attributes were evaluated consisting of eight aroma, four aroma-by-mouth, four mouthfeel, two taste, and five aftertaste terms. Results revealed 18 significant attributes for the R1 series. With the exception of silky mouthfeel, all attributes were rated highest in R1 and lowest in R1-E. The R2 series contained sixteen significant attributes, all of which were rated higher in R2 compared with R2-E. The flavor profiles of the original rums and those diluted with water were very similar, with the diluted rums generally having slightly lower attribute intensities. In contrast, the rums diluted with 40% ABV had significantly different flavor profiles than the original rums. Results indicate that diluting spirits with water may reduce the odor suppression effects of ethanol or enhance flavor release which appears to counteract the flavor dilution effect.

Spray-chilling encapsulation of 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline zinc chloride complex using hydrophobic materials: Feasibility and characterization of microcapsules

A moisture-sensitive 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline zinc chloride complex (2AP-ZnCl₂) was successfully encapsulated by spray-chilling, using a hydrophobic moisture barrier as a practical way to protect the complex and to help facilitate its general use in food applications. Use of octacosane as wall material provided a flavor retention of 65.3%. The results from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray micro-computed tomography (X-ray micro-CT) indicated desirable morphological characteristics of the matrix type microcapsules. Gas chromatography (GC) and absorbance spectroscopy were used for chemical quantitation of 2AP and ZnCl₂, respectively, in the microcapsules. Results revealed no degradation of 2AP occurred as a result of the encapsulation process. This study is the first to demonstrate the feasibility of producing high quality microcapsules from labile flavor complexes by spray-chilling. The use of generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substances, including 2AP and ZnCl₂, may allow for widespread commercial use of 2AP as a flavor ingredient.

Identification and Quantitation of Potent Odorants in Spearmint Oils

Potent odorants in Native spearmint, Scotch spearmint, and Macho mint oils were determined by the combined use of gas chromatography-olfactometry (GCO), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). Of the 85 odorants detected, ( R)-(-)-carvone was the most potent odorant in all three spearmint oils. Additional predominant odorants in all spearmint oils included eugenol, ethyl ( S)-(+)-2-methylbutanoate, ( E)-β-damascenone, and (3 E,5 Z)-1,3,5-undecatriene. Forty-six compounds were quantitated using various methods, including 19 by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID), 20 by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA), and 14 by GCO dilution analysis. Concentrations were used to calculate the odor activity values (OAVs) for predominant odorants in the oils. Among the compounds quantitated, those with the highest OAVs were ( R)-(-)-carvone, 1,8-cineole, ( E, Z)-2,6-nonadienal, ( E)-β-damascenone, and (3 E,5 Z)-1,3,5-undecatriene.

Novel Creation of a Rum Flavor Lexicon Through the Use of Web-Based Material

Flavor lexicons help both manufacturers and consumers communicate the intricacies of flavor nuances they experience within a product. Lexicon development typically requires the use of a trained sensory panel to evaluate a representative sample set of the product category to generate terms that describe certain product attributes. In the case of rum, there is considerable variation in terms of style, flavor characteristics, and the sheer number of rums produced making it difficult to create a lexicon in this manner. Furthermore, sensory fatigue from the high alcohol content can also hinder lexicon development. This is the first study to create a rum flavor lexicon using web-based material (comprising blogs, company descriptions, and review websites) to minimize the time and cost and to allow for the inclusion of a greater number of rum products. Reviews for over 1000 different rums were utilized, comprising evaluations that described an array of rums, including white, gold, aged, and agricole. Each evaluation was coded for aroma, aroma-by-mouth, and taste attributes using NVivo^TM software to amass the sensory terms. Word frequency analysis was conducted on coded attributes. The analysis yielded 147 terms, sorted into 22 different categories. The most prominent terms included vanilla, oak, caramel, fruity, molasses, and baking spices.

Identification and characterization of the aroma-impact components of Thai fish sauce

Comprehensive analysis of the potent odorants in Thai premium fish sauce samples was accomplished by use of complementary volatile isolation methods combined with gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O) and GC-mass spectrometry. Odorants of intermediate and low volatility were determined by direct solvent extraction/solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (DSE-SAFE) and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). Meanwhile, static headspace dilution analysis (SHDA) and headspace solid-phase microextraction (H-SPME) were used to determine the highly volatile odorants. Results of AEDA indicated the importance (log3FD factor≥6) of five acidic odorants (butanoic acid, 3-methylbutanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furanone, 4-hydroxy-2-ethyl-5-methyl-3(2H)-furanone, and 2-phenylacetic acid) and four neutral/basic odorants (3-methylbutanal, (Z)-1,5-octadien-3-one, phenylacetaldehyde, and o-aminoacetophone). Results of SHDA indicated the predominant (log3FD factors≥5) headspace odorants were methanethiol, 2-methylpropanal, 2-methylbutanal, 3-methylbutanal, dimethyl trisulfide, 3-(methylthio)propanal, and butanoic acid. Concentrations for 21 odorants were determined by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA), and their odor-activity values (OAVs) were calculated. Among these, methanethiol, 2-methylpropanal, 3-methylbutanal, dimethyl trisulfide, 3-(methylthio)propanal, and butanoic acid had the highest OAVs (>500). Results of aroma recombination and omission studies revealed the importance of acids, aldehydes, and sulfur-containing compounds to the overall aroma of the Thai fish sauce.

Characterization of typical potent odorants in cola-flavored carbonated beverages by aroma extract dilution analysis

The aroma-active compounds in typical cola-flavored carbonated beverages were characterized using gas chromatography-olfactometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The potent odorants in the top three U.S. brands of regular colas were identified by aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). Among the numerous odorants identified, eugenol (spicy, clovelike, sweet) and coumarin (sweet, herbaceous) were predominant in all colas. Other predominant odorants in at least one brand included guaiacol (smoky) and linalool (floral, sweet), while 1,8-cineole (minty, eucalyptus-like) was a moderately potent odorant in all colas. Determination of the enantiomeric compositions indicated that (R)-(-)-linalool (34.5%) was a more potent odorant than the (S)-(+)-enantiomer (65.6%) due to its much lower odor detection threshold. In addition, lemon-lime and cooling attributes determined by sensory descriptive analysis had the highest odor intensities among the eight sensory descriptors. The aroma profiles of the three colas were in good agreement with the potent odorants identified by AEDA.

Identification of character-impact odorants in a cola-flavored carbonated beverage by quantitative analysis and omission studies of aroma reconstitution models

Thirty aroma-active components of a cola-flavored carbonated beverage were quantitated by stable isotope dilution assays, and their odor activity values (OAVs) were calculated. The OAV results revealed that 1,8-cineole, (R)-(-)-linalool, and octanal made the greatest contribution to the overall aroma of the cola. A cola aroma reconstitution model was constructed by adding 20 high-purity standards to an aqueous sucrose-phosphoric acid solution. The results of headspace solid-phase microextraction and sensory analyses were used to adjust the model to better match authentic cola. The rebalanced model was used as a complete model for the omission study. Sensory results indicated that omission of a group consisting of methyleugenol, (E)-cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and (Z)- and (E)-isoeugenols differed from the complete model, while omission of the individual components of this group did not differ from the complete model. These results indicate that a balance of numerous odorants is responsible for the characteristic aroma of cola-flavored carbonated beverages.

Flavor chemistry of lemon-lime carbonated beverages

The most potent aroma-active components of Sprite (SP), Sierra Mist (SM), and 7UP (7UP) were identified. Aroma extracts were prepared by liquid–liquid continuous extraction/solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (LLCE/SAFE). Twenty-eight compounds were detected by gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC-O) with linalool (floral, lavender), octanal (pungent orange), and 2,3-dehydro-1,8-cineole (minty) determined to be predominant aroma compounds based on their high flavor dilution (FD) factors by aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). The data indicate that lemon-lime flavor is composed of a small number of compounds (22 at the most in SM), and only a subset of these may be important because many compounds were detected only at low FD factors. Predominant aroma compounds (23) were quantified using static headspace solid phase microextraction (SPME) combined with stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA). In contrast to FD factors, the calculated odor-activity values (OAVs) indicate that octanal and limonene make the greatest contribution to the overall aroma of lemon-lime carbonated beverages, followed by nonanal, decanal, linalool, 1,8-cineole, and geranyl acetate. The results demonstrate that lemon-lime carbonated beverages share many of the same compounds but the relative abundance of these compounds varies by brand.

Stabilization of the potent odorant 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline and structural analogues by complexation with zinc halides

2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) and the structurally similar compounds 6-acetyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydropyridine (ATHP, along with its tautomer 6-acetyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridine), 2-propionyl-1-pyrroline (2PP), and 2-acetyl-2-thiazoline (2A2T) are well-known potent odorants in various food products. However, due to the highly unstable nature of these compounds, especially 2AP and ATHP, they are scarcely used commercially in flavor formulations. A novel and attractive method for the stabilization of these potent odorants in dry powder form is presented. Coordination of 2AP, ATHP, 2PP, and 2A2T to zinc ions (ZnI2, ZnBr2, or ZnCl2) resulted in the formation in high yields of stable crystalline complexes, which upon hydration release the free odorant. Infrared spectroscopy was used to study the coordination complexes. 2AP contains donor atoms, which coordinate (with covalent character) through both the heterocyclic nitrogen and carbonyl oxygen atoms to the zinc ion. This is also the case for ATHP and 2PP, but not for 2A2T, because the sulfur group in 2A2T provides a third possible donor site. Stability studies showed that the 2AP-ZnI2 complex (with 14% loading) maintained >94% retention of 2AP after 3 months of storage at ambient temperature in a dry environment. Meanwhile, the ATHP-ZnI2 complex was similarly stable and retained 89% of the ATHP after 3 months of storage. This stabilization technology may enable the commercial use of this powerful aroma compound as a flavoring agent.

Analysis of particle-borne odorants emitted from concentrated animal feeding operations

Airborne particles are known to serve as a carrier of odors emanating from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). However, limited quantitative data about particle-borne odorants preclude an accurate assessment of the role of particles in odor transport. This study collected total suspended particulates (TSP) and PM10 (particles with aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 μm) at the air exhaust of eight types of CAFOs (swine: farrowing, gestation, weaning, and finishing; poultry: manure-belt layer hen, tom turkey, chicken broiler, and cage-free layer hen; in total 20 animal buildings) in multiple seasons, and examined the variability in particle odorant composition with animal operation type, season, and particle size. Fifty-seven non-sulfur-containing odorants were identified and quantitated, including carbonyls, alcohols, acids, phenols, and nitrogen-containing compounds. They in total accounted for 2.19±1.52% TSP and 4.97±3.25% PM10 mass. Acetic acid and ethanol were most abundant but less odor-contributing than phenylacetic acid, indole, dodecanoic acid, and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, as determined by odor activity value. Particle odorant composition varied significantly with animal operation type, season, and particle size. The TSP and PM10 samples from swine gestation buildings, for example, showed distinctly different odorant compositions than those from tom turkey buildings. The summer TSP and PM10 samples contained in general lower concentrations of short-chain fatty acids but higher concentrations of long-chain fatty acids, aldehydes, and short-chain alcohols than the winter samples. Compared to TSP, PM10 samples from different types of CAFOs shared a more similar odorant composition, contained higher odorant concentrations per mass of particles, and accounted for on average 53.2% of the odor strength of their corresponding TSP samples.

Characterization of protein hydrolysis and odor-active compounds of fish sauce inoculated with Virgibacillus sp. SK37 under reduced salt content

The effect of Virgibacillus sp. SK37, together with reduced salt content, on fish sauce quality, particularly free amino acids and odor-active compounds, was investigated. Virgibacillus sp. SK37 was inoculated with an approximate viable count of 5 log CFU/mL in samples with varied amounts of solar salt, for example, 10, 15, and 20% of total weight. Eighteen selected odorants were quantitated by stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA), and their odor activity values (OAVs) were calculated. Samples prepared using 10% salt underwent spoilage after 7 days of fermentation. The viable count of Virgibacillus sp. SK37 was found over 3 months in the samples containing 15 and 20% salt. However, acceleration of protein hydrolysis was not pronounced in inoculated samples at both 15 and 20% salt. Virgibacillus sp. SK37, together with salt contents reduced to 15-20%, appeared to increase the content of 2-methylpropanal, 2-methylbutanal, 3-methylbutanal, acetic acid, and 2-methylpropanoic acid. However, only aldehydes were found to have an effect on the overall aroma of fish sauce based on high OAVs, suggesting that the inoculation of samples with Virgibacillus sp. SK37 under reduced salt contents of 15-20% likely contributed to stronger malty or dark chocolate notes.

Sonication in combination with heat and low pressure as an alternative pasteurization treatment--effect on Escherichia coli K12 inactivation and quality of apple cider

Escherichia coli K12 cells suspended in apple cider were treated by manothermosonication (MTS, 400 kPa/59 °C), thermosonication (TS, 100 kPa/59 °C), and manosonication (MS, 400 kPa/55 °C) for up to 4 min. A 5-log reduction was achieved in 1.4 min by MTS, 3.8 min by TS, and 2.5 min by MS. The inactivation curves of the E. coli exhibited a fast initial reduction followed by a slow inactivation section. The Weibull, log-logistic, and biphasic linear models showed a good fit of the inactivation data. Quality analyses were conducted with raw apple cider (control), thermally-pasteurized (TP), and MTS-, TS-, and MS-treated cider samples over a 3-week period at refrigeration temperature. Titratable acidity and pH did not differ among any of the samples. During storage, the turbidity value of the control was the highest, followed by TP, TS, MTS and MS. All color parameters of the TP sample were significantly different from those receiving the other treatments. The control and sonicated samples showed similar color parameters during storage. In total, 97 aroma compounds were identified in the control, TS-, MS-, and MTS-treated cider samples, while 95 aroma compounds were found in the TP at Week 0. Among all the aroma compounds, 9 key ones were identified in all samples, including ethyl 2-methylbutanoate, butyl acetate, 1-butanol, ethyl hexanoate, 1-hexanol, butanoic acid, β-damascenone, hexanoic acid, and octanoic acid. The profiles of the key aroma compounds in all sonicated samples were more similar to the control than the TP sample at Weeks 0 and 3.

Convenient synthesis of stable deuterium-labeled alkylpyrazines for use in stable isotope dilution assays

Stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA) provide for accurate and precise quantitation of aroma components, such as alkylpyrazines, which are often present in low concentrations in complex food matrices. The unavailability of labeled standards is the main limitation to the widespread use of SIDA. This study describes the chlorination of several alkylpyrazines to form the corresponding chloroalkylpyrazine compounds, which are efficient starting materials for the synthesis of deuterium-labeled alkylpyrazines, namely [²H₃]-2-methylpyrazine (d-1), [²H₅]-2-ethylpyrazine (d-2), [²H₃]-2,3(or 6)-dimethylpyrazine (d-3A, d-3B), [²H₃]-2,[²H₃]-6-dimethylpyrazine (d-3C), [²H₅]-2,[²H₅]-6-diethylpyrazine (d-4), [²H₅]-2-ethyl-3(or 6)-methylpyrazine (d-5A, d-5B), 2,[²H₃]-3,5-trimethylpyrazine (d-6), [²H₅]-2-ethyl-3,6-dimethylpyrazine (d-7), [²H₅]-2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine (d-8), and 2,3-diethyl-[²H₃]-5-methylpyrazine (d-9), which were obtained in good yields (57-100%) and high purities (86-98%). These stable isotopes were used as internal standards in SIDA to accurately and precisely determine selected alkylpyrazines in commercial peanut butter, cocoa powder, and instant coffee. 2,3-Diethyl-5-methylpyrazine (p-9) and 2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine (p-8), despite their low abundance, had the highest odor-active values among the 13 pyrazines quantified in all products due to their very low odor thresholds.

Effect of enzymatic protein deamidation on protein solubility and flavor binding properties of soymilk

The effect of enzymatic deamidation by protein-glutaminase (PG) on protein solubility and flavor binding potential of soymilk was studied. Treatment of soymilk with PG for 2 h (temperature of 44 °C and enzyme:substrate ratio (E/S) of 40 U/g protein) resulted in high degree of protein deamidation (66.4% DD) and relatively low degree of protein hydrolysis (4.25% DH). Deamidated (DSM) and control soymilks (CSM) did not differ with respect to aroma, but differed in taste characteristics by sensory evaluation. Protein solubility in DSM was enhanced at weakly acidic conditions (pH 5.0), but did not differ from non-deamidated soymilk at pH values of 3.0 and 7.0. Odor detection thresholds for the flavor compounds vanillin and maltol were approximately 5 and 3 fold lower, respectively, in DSM than in CSM. Dose-response curves (Fechner's law plots and n exponents from Stevens's power law) further demonstrated that DSM had a lower flavor binding potential than CSM. PG deamidation has the potential to reduce flavor binding problems encountered in high protein-containing foods and beverages.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

The findings of this study can help lead to the development of technology to produce protein-containing foods with improved functional properties, especially protein solubility, and potentially decreased flavor fade problems associated with flavor-protein interactions, especially with carbonyl containing flavor compounds.

Effect of enzymatic deamidation of soy protein by protein-glutaminase on the flavor-binding properties of the protein under aqueous conditions

The effect of the enzymatic deamidation by protein-glutaminase (PG) on flavor-binding properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) under aqueous conditions was evaluated by a modified equilibrium dialysis (ultrafiltration) technique. Binding parameters, such as number of binding sites (n) and binding constants (K), were derived from Klotz plots. The partial deamidation of SPI by PG (43.7% degree of deamidation) decreased overall flavor-binding affinity (nK) at 25 °C for both vanillin and maltol by approximately 9- and 4-fold, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters of binding indicated that the flavor-protein interactions were spontaneous (negative ΔG°) and that the driving force of the interactions shifted from entropy to enthalpy driven as a result of deamidation. Deamidation of soy protein caused a change in the mechanism of binding from hydrophobic interactions or covalent bonding (Schiff base formation) to weaker van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonding.

Changes in dark chocolate volatiles during storage

Chocolate storage is critical to the quality of the final product. Inadequate storage, especially with temperature fluctuations, may lead to a change in crystal structure, which may eventually cause fat bloom. Bloom is the main cause of quality loss in the chocolate industry. The impact of various storage conditions on the flavor quality of dark chocolate was determined. Dark chocolate was stored in different conditions leading to either fat or sugar bloom and analyzed at 0, 4, and 8 weeks of storage. Changes in chocolate flavor were determined by volatile analysis and descriptive sensory evaluation. Results were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA), cluster analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and linear partial least-squares regression analysis (PLS). Volatile concentration and loss were significantly affected by storage conditions. Chocolates stored at high temperature were the most visually and texturally compromised, but volatile concentrations were affected the least, whereas samples stored at ambient, frozen, and high relative humidity conditions had significant volatile loss during storage. It was determined that high-temperature storage caused a change in crystal state due to the polymorphic shift to form VI, leading to an increase in sample hardness. Decreased solid fat content (SFC) during high-temperature storage increased instrumentally determined volatile retention, although no difference was detected in chocolate flavor during sensory analysis, possibly due to instrumental and sensory sampling techniques. When all instrumental and sensory data had been taken into account, the storage condition that had the least impact on texture, surface roughness, grain size, lipid polymorphism, fat bloom formation, volatile concentrations, and sensory attributes was storage at constant temperature and 75% relative humidity.

Optimization of the enzymatic deamidation of soy protein by protein-glutaminase and its effect on the functional properties of the protein

The effects of enzymatic deamidation by protein-glutaminase (PG) on the functional properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) were studied. Conditions for the deamidation were evaluated by means of response surface methodology (RSM). Optimal conditions based on achieving a high degree of deamidation (DD) with a concurrently low degree of hydrolysis (DH) were 44 °C, enzyme:substrate ratio (E/S) of 40 U/g protein and pH 7.0. Under optimal conditions, both DD and DH increased over time. SDS-PAGE results indicated that lower molecular mass subunits were produced with increasing DD. Far-UV circular dichroism spectra revealed that the α-helix structure decreased with higher DD, while the β-sheet structure increased until 15 min of deamidation (32.9% DD), but then decreased at higher DD. The solubility of deamidated SPI was enhanced under both acidic and neutral conditions. SPI with higher DD showed better emulsifying properties and greater foaming capacity than SPI, while foaming stability was decreased. It is possible to modify and potentially improve the functional properties of SPI by enzymatic deamidation using PG.

Investigation of thermal decomposition as the kinetic process that causes the loss of crystalline structure in sucrose using a chemical analysis approach (part II)

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on a calcium form cation exchange column with refractive index and photodiode array detection was used to investigate thermal decomposition as the cause of the loss of crystalline structure in sucrose. Crystalline sucrose structure was removed using a standard differential scanning calorimetry (SDSC) method (fast heating method) and a quasi-isothermal modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) method (slow heating method). In the fast heating method, initial decomposition components, glucose (0.365%) and 5-HMF (0.003%), were found in the sucrose sample coincident with the onset temperature of the first endothermic peak. In the slow heating method, glucose (0.411%) and 5-HMF (0.003%) were found in the sucrose sample coincident with the holding time (50 min) at which the reversing heat capacity began to increase. In both methods, even before the crystalline structure in sucrose was completely removed, unidentified thermal decomposition components were formed. These results prove not only that the loss of crystalline structure in sucrose is caused by thermal decomposition, but also that it is achieved via a time-temperature combination process. This knowledge is important for quality assurance purposes and for developing new sugar based food and pharmaceutical products. In addition, this research provides new insights into the caramelization process, showing that caramelization can occur under low temperature (significantly below the literature reported melting temperature), albeit longer time, conditions.

Identification of predominant odorants in thai desserts flavored by smoking with "Tian Op", a traditional Thai scented candle

"Tian Op", a traditional Thai scented candle, is used for the smoking and flavoring of sweets, cakes, and other desserts for the purpose of adding a unique aroma to the final product. Gas chromatography-olfactometry, aroma extract dilution analysis, and GC-MS were applied to identify the potent odorants in two types of traditional Thai desserts ("num dok mai" and "gleep lum duan") prepared using a Tian Op smoking process. On the basis of the results of AEDA and calculated odor-activity values, the predominant odorants in the Tian Op flavored desserts were vinyl ketones (C(5)-C(9)), n-aldehydes (C(5)-C(11)), (E)-2-unsaturated aldehydes (C(8)-C(11)), and omega-1-unsaturated aldehydes (C(8) and C(9)). Sensory studies of model mixtures confirmed the importance of n-aldehydes, omega-1-unsaturated aldehydes, and guaiacol as predominant odorants; however, the results showed that vinyl ketones and (E)-2-unsaturated aldehydes, despite having high odor-activity values, may be of only minor importance in the typical aroma profiles of traditional Tian Op smoked desserts.

Identification of characteristic aroma components of Thai fried chili paste

Three forms of Thai fried chili pastes (CP) were prepared, consisting of an unheated CP (UH-CP), a CP heated at 100 degrees C for 25 min (H25-CP, typical product), and a CP excessively heated for 50 min (H50-CP). The potent odorants in the CPs were investigated by two gas chromatography-olfactometry methods: dynamic headspace dilution analysis (DHDA) and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA). DHDA revealed that the predominant odorants in heated CPs were mainly sulfur-containing compounds, followed by lipid-derived compounds, Strecker aldehydes, and Maillard reaction products. Dimethyl sulfide, allyl mercaptan, 2- (or 3-) methylbutanal, ally methyl sulfide, 2,3-butanedione, 3,3'-thiobis(1-propene), and methyl propyl disulfide were among the most potent headspace odorants detected by DHDA. By AEDA, 2-vinyl-4 H-1,3-dithiin and diallyl trisulfide had the highest FD factors in H25-CP. On the basis of their high FD factors by both GCO methods, the predominant odorants in H25-CP were 3-vinyl-4 H-1,2-dithiin, allyl methyl disulfide, and allyl methyl trisulfide. Furthermore, dimethyl trisulfide and diallyl disulfide had the highest odor activity values in H25-CP, suggesting that these were also potent odorants in CP. In addition, methional, 3-methylbutanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3-(2 H)-furanone, and 3-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2( 5H)-furanone (sotolon) were indicated as potent thermally derived odorants of H25-CP.

Effect of cold storage and packaging material on the major aroma components of sweet cream butter

The major aroma compounds of commercial sweet cream AA butter quarters were analyzed by GC-olfactometry and GC-MS combined with dynamic headspace analysis (DHA) and solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE). In addition, the effect of long-term storage (0, 6, and 12 months) and type of wrapping material (wax parchment paper vs foil) on the aroma components and sensory properties of these butters kept under refrigerated (4 degrees C) and frozen (-20 degrees C) storage was evaluated. The most intense compounds in the aroma of pasteurized AA butter were butanoic acid, delta-octalactone, delta-decalactone, 1-octen-3-one, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, dimethyl trisulfide, and diacetyl. The intensities of lipid oxidation volatiles and methyl ketones increased as a function of storage time. Refrigerated storage caused greater flavor deterioration compared with frozen storage. The intensity and relative abundance of styrene increased as a function of time of storage at refrigeration temperature. Butter kept frozen for 12 months exhibited lower styrene levels and a flavor profile more similar to that of fresh butter compared to butter refrigerated for 12 months. Foil wrapping material performed better than wax parchment paper in preventing styrene migration into butter and in minimizing the formation of lipid oxidation and hydroxyl acid products that contribute to the loss of fresh butter flavor.

Instrumental and sensory characterization of heat-induced odorants in aseptically packaged soy milk

Predominant heat-induced odorants generated in soy milk by ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) processing were evaluated by sensory and instrumental techniques. Soy milks processed by UHT (143 degrees C/14 s, 143 degrees C/59 s, 154 degrees C/29 s) were compared to a control soy milk (90 degrees C/10 min) after 0, 1, and 7 days of storage (4.4 +/- 1 degrees C). Dynamic headspace dilution analysis (DHDA) and solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE) in conjunction with GC-olfactometry (GCO)/aroma extract dilution techniques and GC-MS were used to identify and quantify major aroma-active compounds. Sensory results revealed that intensities of overall aroma and sulfur and sweet aromatic flavors were affected by the processing conditions. Odorants mainly responsible for the changes in sulfur perception were methional, methanethiol, and dimethyl sulfide. Increases in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, 2-acetyl-thiazole, and 2-acetyl-2-thiazoline intensities were associated with roasted aromas. A marginal increase in intensity of sweet aromatic flavor could be explained by increases in 2,3-butanedione, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, beta-damascenone, and 2- and 3-methylbutanal. Predominant lipid-derived odorants, including (E,E)-2,4-nonadienal, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, (E,Z)-2,4-decadienal, (E)-2-nonenal, (E)-2-octenal, 1-octen-3-one, 1-octen-3-ol, and (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal, were affected by processing conditions. Intensities of overall aroma and sulfur notes in soy milk decreased during storage, whereas other sensory attributes did not change. Color changes, evaluated by using a Chroma-meter, indicated all UHT heating conditions used in this study generated a more yellow and saturated color in soy milk in comparison to the control soy milk.

Aroma components of acid-hydrolyzed vegetable protein made by partial hydrolysis of rice bran protein

Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) was prepared from rice bran protein concentrate (RBPc) by partial hydrolysis with aqueous 0.5 N HCl at 95 degrees C for 12 or 36 h (H-RBPc-12 and H-RBPc-36, respectively). Aroma components of the RBPc and the HVPs were characterized by gas chromatography-olfactometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, aroma extract dilution analysis, and calculation of odor activity values (OAVs). The predominant odorants in RBPc were 3-methylbutanal, hexanal, 2-aminoacetophenone, (E)-2-nonenal, phenylacetaldehyde, and beta-damascenone. Among these, the odor of 2-aminoacetophenone, present at 59 ng/g in RBPc, was reminiscent of the typical odor of RBPc. Most of the predominant odorants had higher log3FD factors in the H-RBPc-36 as compared to H-RBPc-12. Aroma impact compounds of H-RBPc-12 and H-RBPc-36 were 2-methoxyphenol (guaiacol), 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)furanone, 3-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2(5H)furanone (sotolon), vanillin, 3-methylbutanal, (E)-2-nonenal, 4-vinyl-2-methoxyphenol (p-vinylguaiacol), and beta-damascenone. Guaiacol had the highest OAV values of 2770 and 17650 in H-RBPc-12 and H-RBPc-36, respectively.

Metal−Organic Frameworks as Adsorbents for Trapping and Preconcentration of Organic Phosphonates

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have high surface areas and tailorable molecular properties so they have the potential of being selective adsorbents for preconcentrators. In this paper, IRMOF1 is tested as an adsorbent for preconcentration for the first time using dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) as a test case. We find that DMMP is selectively adsorbed on IRMOF1 and is released upon heating to 250 degrees C. Concentration gains of more than 5000 are observed for DMMP with a 4-s sampling time. Sorption capacities are 0.95 g of DMMP/g of IRMOF1. By comparison, dodecane shows a preconcentration gain of approximately 5 under similar conditions. These results demonstrate that MOFs can be quite useful in selective preconcentrators.