Unraveling the relationship between aroma characteristics and lipid profile of abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) during seasonal fluctuation and thermal processing

Abalone, a highly sought-after aquatic product, possesses significant nutritional value. In this study, the relationship between aroma characteristics and lipid profile of abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) during seasonal fluctuation and thermal processing were profiled via volatolomics and lipidomics. 46 aroma compounds and 371 lipids were identified by HS-SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-Q-Extractive Orbitrap-MS, respectively. Multivariate statistical analysis indicated that carbonyls (aldehydes and ketones) and alcohols were the characteristic aroma compounds of abalone. The fluctuations in the aroma compound and lipid composition of abalone were consistent with the seasonal variation, especially seawater temperature. In addition, based on the correlation analysis, it was found that carbonyls (aldehydes and ketones) and alcohols had a positive correlation with phospholipids (lysophosphatidylethanolamines and lysophosphatidylcholines), while a negative correlation was observed with fatty acyls. These findings suggested that the effect of seasonal variations on the aroma changes of abalone might achieved by modulating the lipids composition of abalone.

Effects of seasoning addition and cooking conditions on the formation of free and protein-bound heterocyclic amines and advanced glycation end products in braised lamb

The accumulation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in thermally processed meats has been arising safety concerns. The effects of cooking conditions and seasoning addition on the formation of HAs and AGEs in Chinese traditional braised lamb were investigated by UPLC-MS/MS analysis. Soy sauce significantly increased the formation of HAs and AGEs, among which light soy sauce had the greatest promoting effect (69.45-15300.62 %). Conversely, spices inhibited HAs and AGEs formation, the inhibition rate of free HAs and AGEs reached 22.06-34.72 % when using 70 % ethanol extract. Hot blanching treatment and adding soy sauce and spices at a later stage could significantly suppress HAs and AGEs production. Flavonoids, including galangin, hesperidin, narirutin, etc., were identified as key effectors in spices. These findings help to promote awareness of the formation of HAs and AGEs in braised lamb and provide valuable insights for optimizing processing techniques to minimize their production.

Impact of manufacturing processes on glycerolipid and polar lipid composition and ultrastructure in infant formula

The introduction of exogenous lipids in the production of infant formula induces significant alterations in milk lipid composition, content, and membrane structure, thus affecting the lipid digestion, absorption, and utilization. This study meticulously tracks these changes throughout the manufacturing process. Pasteurization has a significant effect on phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin in the outer membrane, decreasing their relative contents to total polar lipids from 12.52% and 17.34% to 7.72% and 12.59%, respectively. Subsequent processes, including bactericidal-concentration and spray-drying, demonstrate the thermal stability of sphingomyelin and ceramides, while glycerolipids with arachidonic acid/docosahexaenoic acid and glycerophospholipids, particularly phosphatidylethanolamine, diminish significantly. Polar lipids addition and freeze-drying technology significantly enhance the polar lipid content and improve microscopic morphology of infant formula. These findings reveal the diverse effects of technological processes on glycerolipid and polar lipid compositions, concentration, and ultrastructure in infant formulas, thus offering crucial insights for optimizing lipid content and structure within infant formula.

Impact of thermal treatment on proanthocyanidin-pectin binary complexes: Insights from structural, rheological, antioxidant, and astringent properties

In this study, the effects of thermal treatments on the structural, rheological, water mobility, antioxidant, and astringency properties of proanthocyanidin (PA)-pectin binary complexes were investigated. Thermal treatments (25, 63, or 85 °C) significantly decreased the particle size but increased the molecular weight of PA-pectin complexes, which indicated that heating altered the intermolecular and intramolecular interactions between PA and pectin. The thermal treatments reduced the apparent viscosity of both pectin and PA-pectin complexes, but the presence of proanthocyanidins (PAs) increased the apparent viscosity and water mobility of the PA-pectin complexes. Antioxidant activity analysis showed that the presence of pectin slightly reduced the antioxidant activity of the PAs, but there were no significant changes in the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity after thermal treatment. Finally, we found that pectin reduced the astringency of the PAs by forming PA-pectin complexes. Moreover, the thermal treatments also significantly reduced the astringency of the PA-pectin complexes.

Isolation, structural characterization and biological activity evaluation of melanoidins from thermally processed cocoa beans, carob kibbles and acorns as potential cytotoxic agents

The aim of this study was to determine the chemical structure and biological activity of melanoidin fractions derived from cocoa beans, carob kibbles, and acorns roasted at different temperature-time conditions. The results showed that plant origin and roasting conditions had significant effects on the chemical composition, structural features, and morphology of melanoidins. All tested melanoidins exhibited significant antioxidant properties in three in vitro assays. In addition, they show significant in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by reducing lipoxygenase. The results from MTT assay showed that the all studied melanoidins had a cytotoxic effect against SW-480 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, the most pronounced activity was observed for acorn melanoidins. This is a unique finding, as the specific cytotoxic effect has not been reported for cocoa, carob and acorn melanoidins, and opens up a great opportunity to develop a potential novel cytotoxic agent against deadly colon cancer in the future.

Effects of quercetin and l-ascorbic acid on heterocyclic amines and advanced glycation end products production in roasted eel and lipid-mediated inhibition mechanism analysis

Eel is a commercially important marine fish, frequently featured as sushi or roasted preparations. This study determined the formation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in roasted eel and evaluated the inhibitory mechanism of quercetin and l-ascorbic acid on their formation. The results indicate a respective reduction of 75.07% and 84.72% in total HAs, alongside a decline of 23.03% and 39.14% in AGEs. Additionally, fundamental parameters of roasted eel, lipid oxidation indicators and precursors were measured to elucidate the mechanisms and impact of natural antioxidants on HAs and AGEs formation in roasted eel. Furthermore, endeavors were made to probe into the molecular mechanisms governing the influence of key differential lipids on the generation of HAs and AGEs through lipid-mics analysis. This research emphasizes the potential of natural antioxidants in preventing harmful substances formation during eel thermal processing, which is helpful to food manufacturers for healthier food production.

Effect of different thermal processing methods on sensory, nutritional, physicochemical and structural properties of Penaeus vannamei

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different thermal processing methods on the nutritional and physicochemical qualities of Penaeus vannamei. Three different thermal processing methods, namely, drying (DS, 120 °C/40 min), steaming (SS, 100 °C/2 min), and microwaving (MS, 600 W/2 min) were used to treat the shrimps. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance data indicated that fixed water was the main component of Penaeus vannamei. The ratio of fatty acids in MS and DS samples was more in line with the FAO/WHO recommended health requirements; The myofibrillar protein carbonyl group increased, whereas sulfhydryl content decreased after thermal processing, indicating that the proteins were oxidized by thermal processing. The magnitude of oxidation is: MS > SS > DS. Different thermal processing methods can exert great influence on color texture and nutrition to Penaeus vannamei, which can provide a theoretical knowledge for consumers to choose the appropriate processing method.

Effect of chemical, thermal, and enzymatic processing of wheat bran on the solubilization, technological and biological properties of non-starch polysaccharides

Wheat bran is a low-cost by-product with significant nutritional value, but it is primarily utilized in animal feed applications. This study sought to investigate chemical methodologies for modifying the wheat bran's structure, enhancing non-starch polysaccharides solubility in water, and assessing alterations in functional and biological attributes. Chemical modifications were conducted under aqueous, alkaline, acid, and oxidizing conditions. Parameters such as yield, monosaccharides, arabinoxylans, β-glucan and phenolic content, molecular weight, functional properties, and prebiotic in vitro capacity were examined. The samples exhibited higher yields than the control, particularly in alkaline and acidic extractions. Notably, all soluble polysaccharide fractions (SPF) displayed a reduced molecular weight (<25KDa). β-glucan contents were raised in alkaline and acid extractions compared to the control, despite only in alkaline extraction were observed increase in arabinoxylans, confirmed by enzymatic-driven linkage analyses. Phenolic compounds and their antioxidant activities were low across all SPF. The samples showed heightened solubility, minimal foaming, and reduced water absorption properties. An alkaline extraction demonstrated a potential high prebiotic effect. Most samples showed positive relative growth and prebiotic activity for Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. This study suggests that an alkaline extraction of wheat by-product could enhance its value by increasing β-glucan content, arabinoxylans release, and prebiotic potential.

Thermal aging of polystyrene microplastics within mussels (Mytilus coruscus) under boiling and drying processing

Aged microplastics (MPs) in the environment are a growing concern due to their higher ecological toxicity compared to pristine MPs. While previous studies have explored aging behaviors of MPs under various stress conditions, little is known about their aging during food processing. In this study, we investigated the effects of different thermal food processing methods on the aging of polystyrene (PS) MPs within mussels. We subjected the mussels containing PS MPs to boiling, boiling/solar drying, boiling/hot air drying, and boiling/microwave drying treatments, all of which are common preservation methods used in industry. We analyzed the particle size, surface morphology, yellowing, crystallinity, chemical groups, and hydrophilicity of the PS MPs to understand the aging process. Results show that all processing methods led to aging of PS MPs, with boiling/microwave drying having the most significant impact, followed by boiling/hot air drying, boiling/solar drying, and boiling alone. The aged PS MPs exhibited smaller size, morphological changes, reduced crystallinity, increased yellowness index and carbonyl index, higher presence of O-containing groups, and enhanced hydrophilicity. These findings provide evidence of MPs aging during thermal food processing and emphasize the potential risks associated with this pathway.

Oil addition increases the heat resistance of Clostridium sporogenes spores in braised sauce beef: Perspectives from spore surface characteristics and microstructure

During thermal processing of braised sauce beef, the lipid content of circularly used sauce increased accordingly because of lipid migration from beef to sauce, which may impact the bacterial heat resistance in the products. This study aims to characterize the heat resistance of Clostridium sporogenes spores in braised sauce beef, and investigate the effects of oil on the spore surface characteristics and microstructure. The results indicated that the heat resistance of C. sporogenes spores in beef was significantly higher than that in sauce. Oil addition remarkably enhanced the spore heat resistance in sauce, with D95°C value three times more than that without oil added, and even higher than that in beef. The results of spore surface characteristics indicated that oil addition led to an increase of hydrophobicity and a decrease of zeta potential, which ultimately increased spore heat resistance. Microstructure analysis indicated that exosporium maintenance and cortex expansion induced by oil addition might contribute to the increase of spore heat resistance. This study has sufficiently verified the importance of oil content on the heat resistance of C. sporogenes spores, which should be taken into consideration when developing thermal processes for controlling the spores in food matrices.

Exploring the hypoglycaemic efficacy of bio-accessed antioxidative polyphenolics in thermally processed Cucumis dipsaceus fruits - An in vitro and in silico study

Inhibition of breakdown of dietary carbohydrates, by controlling the postprandial activity of diabetic enzymes through fruit polyphenolics can help downregulate the effects of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). The study focuses on deciphering the induction of hyperglycaemic control by bio-accessed anti-oxidative polyphenols of Cucumic dipsaceus fruits. Chiefly, we examined the antioxidant activity of bio-accessed polyphenols of C. dipsaceus fruits (DPPH: ME (GDE)-66.26 %; ABTS: FE (IDE)-1963.83 µM TEAC/mg extract; Phosphomolybdenum reduction: FE (IDE)- 64.95 mg AAEAC/g extract). To add more significance, the anti-diabetic activity was predetermined by in silico docking analyses (Pseudojervine - -5.43; Squalene- -10.41) and was concurrently confirmed by in vitro studies (α amylase inhibition: ME (GDE) - 69.58 %; α glucosidase inhibition: FE (UDE)- 88.67 %). A higher bio-accessibility of rutin (37.92 mg/g ODE) and gallic acid (8.36 mg/g ODE) was observed after quantification by HPLC, which confirmed the correlation between anti-diabetic activity and C. dipsaceus fruit phenolic compounds.

Evaluate the effect of β-cyclodextrin on the sensory and physicochemical properties of bitter gourd extract during thermal processing

This study aims to evaluate the impact of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) on the properties of the bitter gourd extract (BGE) under various heating conditions. In this work, the BGE and BGE supplemented with β-CD (0.75%) were heated at 60, 90, and 121 °C for 20 min before measuring the changes of bitterness, total saponin, polyphenol, antioxidant capacity, free amino acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, browning intensity, and pH. It was found that β-CD mitigated the effect of heat treatment on the BGE, especially on saponins and color. Results also showed the debittering ability of β-CD was still preserved after heating duration. The bitter-masking and defensive mechanism of β-CD was also demonstrated using FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis, and molecular docking stimulation. These findings illustrated the addition of β-CD improved the thermal stability of the BGE, opening up the opportunities to incorporate BGE, which is promising in diabetes treatment but thermolabile, into heat-processed products.

Integrated 4D label-free proteomics and data mining to elucidate the effects of thermal processing on crisp grass carp protein profiles

The crisp grass carp (CGC; Ctenopharyngodon idellus C. et V.), known for its unique texture and flavour, is a culinary delicacy whose quality is significantly influenced by thermal processing. This study employed 4D label-free proteomics and data mining techniques to investigate the proteomic changes in CGC muscle tissue induced by various heating temperatures. CGC samples were subjected to a series of heat treatments at increasing temperatures from 20 °C to 90 °C. Proteins were extracted, digested, and analysed using high-resolution mass spectrometry. The proteomic data were then subjected to extensive bioinformatics analysis, including GO and KEGG pathway enrichment. We identified a total of 1085 proteins, 516 of which were shared across all the temperature treatments, indicating a core proteome responsible for CGC textural properties. Differential expression analysis revealed temperature-dependent changes, with significant alterations observed at 90 °C, suggesting denaturation or aggregation of proteins at higher temperatures. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that proteins involved in amino acid metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism were particularly affected by heat. Textural analysis correlated these proteomic changes with alterations in CGC quality attributes, pinpointing 70 °C as the optimum temperature for maintaining the desired texture. A strong positive correlation between specific upregulated proteins was identified, such as the tubulin alpha chain and collagen alpha-1(IV) chain, and the improved textural properties of CGC during thermal processing, suggesting their potential as the potential biomarkers. This study offers a comprehensive proteomic view of the thermal stability and functionality of CGC proteins, delivering invaluable insights for both the culinary processing and scientific management of CGC. Our findings not only deepen the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the textural alterations in CGC during thermal processing but also furnish practical insights for the aquaculture industry. These insights could be leveraged to optimize cooking techniques, thereby enhancing the quality and consumer appeal of CGC products.

Changes in bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of three Amaranthus L. genotypes from a model to household processing

Amaranthus L. leaves are consumed as vegetables and are a rich source of secondary plant metabolites. The phenolic profiles of the three analyzed genotypes by LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD were characterized by high amounts of hydroxycinnamic glucaric and -isocitric acids. 'Gartenfuchsschwanz' (A. hybridus L.) and 'Red Callaloo' (A. tricolor L.) had similar profiles. 'Gemüse-Amaranth' (A. tricolor L.) had a high amount of caffeoylglucaric acid 4, which was isolated, and afterward identified by NMR. Its antioxidant activity, measured by TEAC, DPPH, and TPC, was similar to 5-caffeoylquinic acid, common in many plant species. The antioxidant activity of Amaranthus L. can be explained rather by their different phenolic- and ascorbic acid concentrations than by their species. Household cooking reduces antioxidant activity due to oxidation processes while leaching into cooking water could be neglected. Amaranthus L. baked into a wheat-dough-matrix showed lower phenolic concentrations, presumably due to the formation of phenol-protein-bounds and thermal degradation.

Enrichment of resistant starch in starch-protein hydrolysate binary matrix by modulating pH during thermal processing

Controlling the digestion features of starch-based food matrices following thermal processing plays vital roles in reducing risks of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type II diabetes. To date, it remains largely unclear how regulating the pH during thermal processing alters the microstructure and digestion features of starch-based matrix including protein hydrolysates. Considering this, corn starch (CS) and soybean protein isolate (SPI) (or its hydrolysates (SPIH)) were used to prepare thermally-processed CS-SPI and CS-SPIH binary matrices under different pH values (3 to 9), followed by inspection of changes in the structures and digestibility using combined methods. It was found that including SPI (especially SPIH) caused structural changes of those binary systems, such as reduced network sizes, increased V-crystals and reduced nanoscale structures, which could allow more resistant starch (RS). This phenomenon was especially true when including SPIH with regulated pH value. For instance, SPIH inclusion at pH 5 caused the highest RS content (about 20.30%), presumably linked to the reduced molecule size of SPIH with strengthened aggregation at pH 5. In contrast, the acidic (pH 3) and alkaline (pH 9) conditions allowed reduced short-range orders and tailored porous networks and thus less RS (ca. 17.46% at pH 3 and 16.74% at pH 9).

Impact of thermal processing on dietary flavonoids

Flavonoids are a class of polyphenols which are widely distributed in natural products and foods. They have diverse bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant activities. Generally, the foods rich in flavonoids are usually consumed after thermal processing. However, thermal stability of flavonoids is usually low, and thermal processing could cause either positive or negative influences on their stability and bioactivities. In this review, the effects of thermal processing on thermal stability and bioactivity of dietary flavonoids from different food sources are summarized. Then, strategies to improve thermal stability of dietary flavonoids are discussed and the effect of some promising thermal technologies are also preliminary clarified. The promising thermal technologies may be alternative to conventional thermal processing technologies.

Expanding annotation of chemical compounds in hawthorn fruits and their variations in thermal processing using integrated mass spectral similarity networking

Chemical structural characterization of chemical compounds from hawthorn fruits and its thermal processed products was carried out in present study. By linking Global Natural Products Social (GNPS) Molecular Networking and MolNetEnhancer workflow, seventy-four chemical compounds in hawthorn fruits and its thermal processed products were tentatively identified. Three quercetagetin derivatives (quercetagetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetagetin-di-glucoside and its isomer), five quercetin or kaempferol derivatives (quercetin-acetylapiosyl-hexoside, quercetin-3-O-(6″-malonyl-hexoside), quercetin-3-O-(6″-malonyl-hexoside)-(1 → 2)-O-hexoside, quercetin-3-O-(6″-malonyl-hexoside)-(1 → 2)-O-deoxyhexoside, kaempferol-3-O-(6″-malonyl-hexoside)), six procyanidins including four (E)C-ethyl-procyanidins and two A-type procyanidins digallate, as well as 13 triterpenoids including ursolic aldehyde, triterpenoid glycosides, and triterpene acids were reported for the first time in hawthorn fruits. In addition, triterpenoids exhibited considerable thermal stability, while all of flavonoid glycosides, proanthocyanidins and 10 in 13 organic acids showed dramatic decrease after thermal processing.

Application of a novel phage LPCS28 for biological control of Cronobacter sakazakii in milk and reconstituted powdered infant formula

Contamination of infant formula with Cronobacter sakazakii (C. sakazakii) can cause fatal infections in neonates. Phages have emerged as promising antibacterial agents for food safety, but their effectiveness may be limited by thermal processing. In this study, we isolated 27 C. sakazakii phages from environmental water samples and selected LPCS28 due to its broad lysis spectrum. The titer of LPCS28 will not be significantly affected by heating at a temperature of 60 °C for one hour. In both reconstituted powdered infant formula (RPIF) and liquid milk, the pre-added LPCS28, after the thermal processing at 63 °C for 30 min, significantly inhibited the post-contaminated C. sakazakii (103 CFU/mL) and eventually reduced the number of C. sakazakii to below the limit of detection (<10 CFU/mL) within 9 h at 37 °C and significantly delayed the increase of bacterial concentration in the samples at 23 °C. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that LPCS28 belonged to a new genus, we proposed as Nanhuvirus, under the family Straboviridae. These findings suggest that phage LPCS28 is a promising biological control agent for pathogenic C. sakazakii in the dairy industry.

Tackling food allergens-The role of food processing on proteins' allergenicity

This chapter examines how innovative and emerging food processing technologies, such as those that use heat, electricity, electromagnetic waves, and pressure, can modify protein denaturation, aggregation, and intermolecular interactions pathways, which can result in varying immunoreactive responses. It emphasizes the need to understand how these processing methods affect the protein epitopes recognized by antibodies and their respective priming pathways, especially during the sensitization stage that precedes an allergic response. Although traditional processing methods have been investigated, the impact of novel technologies on food protein allergenicity remains largely unknown. The chapter specifically focuses on milk proteins, which have clinical significance and are associated with cow's milk allergy, one of the most common food allergies in young children. Additionally, it examines potential scientific advancements that novel processing methods may bring to this field.

Correlation between physicochemical properties and volatile compound profiles in tilapia muscles subjected to four different thermal processing techniques

This work studied the physicochemical properties and odor profiles of tilapia muscles after exposure to four types of thermal processing methods: microwaving, roasting, boiling, or steaming. The effect of thermal processing on textural properties followed a pH-water state-water content-tissue microstructure-mass loss-textural properties route, expressed in the following manner: microwaving > roasting > steaming ≈ boiling. After processing, muscle pH increased from 6.59 ± 0.10 to 6.73 ± 0.04-7.01 ± 0.06, and hardness changed from 1468.49 ± 180.77 g to 452.76 ± 46.94-10723.66 ± 2898.46 g. Gas chromatography-based E-nose analysis confirmed that these methods had significant odor fingerprint effects on the tilapia muscles. Finally, the combined analysis of headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, statistical MetaboAnalyst, and odor activity value showed that the microwaved, roasted, steamed, and boiled tilapia muscles had, respectively, three (hexanal, nonanal, and decanal), four (2-methyl-butanal, 3-methyl-butanal, decanal, and trimethylamine), one (2-methyl-butanal), and one (decanal) relatively important volatile compounds.

Vegetable extracts: Effective inhibitors of heterocyclic aromatic amines and advanced glycation end products in roasted Mackerel

The formation of hazardous substances, heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), in roasted mackerel with different cooking temperatures (180, 210, 240 °C) and vegetable extracts (celery, carrot and yam extracts) in a preheated oven was investigated. The results indicated that the introduction of vegetable extracts had inhibitory effects on HAAs and AGEs during thermal processing, especially celery extracts. Benefiting from the addition of vegetable extracts, the roasted mackerel keep high quality against lipid/protein oxidation, avoids nutrition loss of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and flavor is promoted. We also examined the variation of key precursors, including creatine, creatinine, reducing sugars, amino acids and attempted to explain the molecular pathway of inhibition of the formation of the hazardous substances by vegetable extracts. The results provide theoretical support to develop technologies for inhibiting hazardous substances formation during fish processing, which is important for food manufacturers and consumers for producing healthier meat products.

Toxicity, formation, contamination, determination and mitigation of acrylamide in thermally processed plant-based foods and herbal medicines: A review

Thermal processing is one of the important techniques for most of the plant-based food and herb medicines before consumption and application in order to meet the specific requirement. The plant and herbs are rich in amino acids and reducing sugars, and thermal processing may lead to Maillard reaction, resulting as a high risk of acrylamide pollution. Acrylamide, an organic pollutant that can be absorbed by the body through the respiratory tract, digestive tract, skin and mucous membranes, has potential carcinogenicity, neurological, genetic, reproductive and developmental toxicity. Therefore, it is significant to conduct pollution determination and risk assessment for quality assurance and security of medication. This review demonstrates state-of-the-art research of acrylamide focusing on the toxicity, formation, contamination, determination, and mitigation in taking food and herb medicine, to provide reference for scientific processing and ensure the security of consumers.

Combine thermal processing with polyvalent phage LPEK22 to prevent the Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica contamination in food

Thermal processing is the most frequently used method to destruct bacteria in food processing. However, insufficient thermal processing may lead to the outbreak of foodborne illness. This study combined thermal processing with thermostable phage to prevent food contamination. The thermostable phages were screened which can retain activity at 70 °C for 1 h. Among them, the polyvalent phage LPEK22 was obtained to lyse Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica, especially several multi-drug resistant bacteria. In milk (liquid food matrix), LPEK22 significantly reduced the E. coli by 5.00 ± 0.18 log₁₀ CFU/mL and S. enterica by 4.20 ± 0.23 log₁₀ CFU/mL after thermal processing at 63 °C for 30 min. For beef sausage (solid food matrix), LPEK22 significantly reduced the E. coli by 2.34 ± 0.17 log₁₀ CFU/cm² and S. enterica by 1.54 ± 0.13 log₁₀ CFU/cm² after thermal processing at 66 °C for 90 s. Genome analysis revealed that LPEK22 was a novel phage with a unique tail spike protein belonging to the family of Ackermannviridae. LPEK22 did not contain lysogenic, drug-resistant, and virulent genes that may compromise the safety of food application. These results determined that LPEK22, a novel polyvalent Ackermannviridae phage, could combine with thermal processing to prevent drug-resistant E. coli and S. enterica both in vitro and in foods.

Effect of thermal treatment and addition of olive oil on the antioxidant properties of tamarillo puree

The study intended to determine the effect of temperature (100-200 °C), time (2-6 min), and oil on the bioactive properties and colour parameters of tamarillo puree. The increase in heating temperature (up to 175°C) and time increased the phenolic content, flavonoids content and antioxidant activity. Carotenoids were found to increase from 0.65 to 1.06 (mg β carotene/ g) in puree with oil heated at 200°C for 6 min. In puree with oil, the lightness (L*) and redness (a*) values of puree were found to be reduced, but yellowness (b*), hue angle and chroma improved with treatment temperature and time. Addition of oil exhibited positive influence on retaining the bioactive compounds in comparison to puree without oil, which can be attributed to their enhanced extractability. In conclusion, the desirable effect of heating temperature and time, and addition of virgin olive oil will be helpful in canning of oil enriched tamarillo puree.

The impact of processing on the release and antioxidant capacity of ferulic acid from wheat: A systematic review

The antioxidant capacity and bioaccessibility of ferulic acid (FA)¹ in wheat are highly limited by the lack of free ferulic acid (FFA).² However, many studies claim that wheat processing can efficiently increase FFA content and ultimately influence the overall antioxidant capacity. Hence, this systematic review investigated changes in FFA content, antioxidant capacity and bioaccessibility of wheat after different processing treatments. A literature search of two databases (PubMed and Web of Science) was undertaken covering the last 20 years, yielding 1148 articles. Studies which employed bioprocessing, thermal processing and milling of wheat were considered. After exclusion criteria were applied, 36 articles were included. These covered single processing methods (n = 25, bioprocessing: n = 9, thermal processing: n = 9, milling n = 7) and combined processing methods (n = 11, bioprocessing & thermal processing = 7, bioprocessing, thermal processing & milling = 2, thermal processing & milling = 2). The total ferulic acid (TFA)³ content, degree of covalent bond hydrolysis and the percentage of FFA degraded or transformed to other compounds dominated the final changes in FFA content, antioxidant capacity and bioaccessibility. This systematic review is the first to comprehensively summarize the best efficient processing method for releasing FA and increasing antioxidant capacity and or bioaccessibility in wheat. The combination of particle size reduction, pre-hydrolysis thermal processing (except at high temperature and extended duration) and enzymatic hydrolysis (ferulic acid esterase (FAE)⁴ or fermentation) has the highest potential of releasing FA. However, the literature on the bioaccessibility of FA in wheat is limited and more work is required to demonstrate the link between the release of FA by processing and the consequent health benefits.

Marinated oven-grilled beef entrecôte meat from a bovine farm: Evaluation of resultant physicochemical and organoleptic attributes

Understanding the impact that combined action of marination and oven grill processes would have on such meat products as beef entrecôte is crucial from both consumer appeal and product development standpoints. Therefore, different marinated oven-grilled beef entrecôte meat specifically evaluating resultant physicochemical and organoleptic attributes were studied. The beef entrecôte meat was provided by a reputable local bovine farm/slaughter at Wroclaw, Poland. Physicochemical attributes involved antioxidant (2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiaziline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)), (pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), cooking weight loss, L*a*b* color, and textural cutting force). Organoleptic attributes involved sensory (flavour, appearance, tenderness, taste) and texture (hardness, chewiness, gumminess, graininess, and greasiness) aspects. Different marination variants involved constituent 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% quantities of cranberry pomace (CP), grape pomace (GP), and Baikal skullcap (BS), subsequently incorporated either African spice (AS) or industrial marinade/pickle (IM). Results showed pH, ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, TBARS, L*a*b* color, cooking weight loss, and textural cutting force, sensory and textural profile with varying range values. Concentration increases of either CP, GP, and or BS may not always go along with ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP values, given the observed decreasing or increasing fluctuations. As oven-grilling either increased or decreased the TBARS values alongside some color and textural cutting force trends, pH variations by difference seemed more apparent at samples involving GP, before CP, and then BS. The organoleptic attributes obtained differences and resemblances from both sensory and textural profile standpoints. Overall, oven-grilling promises to moderate both physicochemical and organoleptic range values of different marinated beef entrecôte meat samples in this study.

VUV photoabsorption of thermally processed carbon disulfide and ammonia ice mixtures - Implications for icy objects in the solar system

Many icy bodies in the solar system have been found to contain a rich mixture of simple molecules on their surfaces. Similarly, comets are now known to be a reservoir of molecules ranging from water to amides. The processing of planetary/cometary ices leads to the synthesis of more complex molecules some of which may be the harbingers of life. Carbon disulphide (CS₂) and ammonia (NH₃) are known to be present on many icy satellites and comets. Reactions involving CS₂ and NH₃ may lead to the formation of larger molecules that are stable under space conditions. In this paper we present temperature dependent VUV spectra of pure CS₂ in the ice phase, and of CS₂ and NH₃ ices deposited as (i) layered, and (ii) mixed ices at 10 K and warmed to higher temperatures until their sublimation. Pure CS₂ ice is found to have a broad absorption in the VUV region, which is unique for a small molecule in the ice phase. In layered and mixed ices, the molecules tend to affect the phase change and sublimation temperature of each other and also leave behind a form of CS₂-NH₃ complex after thermal annealing. This study of CS₂-NH₃ ice systems in layered and mixed configurations would support the detection of these species/complexes in mixed molecular ices analogous to that on planetary and cometary surfaces.

Immobilisation of metals from bottom sediments using two additives and thermal treatment

A major problem associated with the land-based management of bottom sediments is their contamination with metals. The aims of the study were: 1) to use two additives for the immobilisation of metals; and 2) to evaluate the effect of three combustion temperatures on metal content and bottom sediment properties. The mixtures were prepared using contaminated bottom sediment and the following waste materials: cellulosic waste and biomass ash. In the second experiment, the bottom sediment samples were subjected to a thermal process, and three temperatures were chosen 500/800/950 °C. Overall, the addition of cellulosic waste and biomass ash to acidic, metal-contaminated bottom sediments significantly improved the properties of the resulting mixtures, including an increase in the pH value, sorption capacity, macronutrient content, and a decrease in the content and mobility of metals (Cd, Zn, Pb, Cr). The study confirmed the effectiveness of the thermal process on a significant reduction in the ecotoxicity of the sediments, a reduction in total content of elements, and a decrease in their leachability, and thus mobility, with increasing process temperature. The study results revealed that the converted contaminated bottom sediments can be effectively managed, provided that further studies on their technical application are carried out.

Ranking based formula optimization, quality investigation, and real-time shelf-life prediction of ready-to-eat ricebean (Vigna umbellata) curry

Ricebean (Vigna umbellata) is an underutilized bean of South and South-East Asia, was exploited to formulate the ready-to-eat curry by using thermal processing technology. Eleven types of RTE ricebean curries (RBCs) namely RBC1, RBC2, RBC3, RBC4, RBC5, RBC6, RBC7, RBC8, RBC9, RBC10, RBC11 were developed by varying the proportion of tomato paste, onion paste, and coriander powder after thermal processing at 121 °C (15 psi) for 20 min. Out of these, the best quality curry was selected based on the total product ranking score (TPRS) which was calculated from the curry quality parameters such as consistency, pH, loss due to sorption onto the inner surface of the retort pouch (LOSS), and sensory (overall acceptability-OAA). Among the curries, RBC2 secured the highest value of TPRS, named it as RTE-RBC and was used to study the physico-chemical, textural, nutritional, microbial, sensory parameters and storage stability. The DPPH-antioxidant activity of RTE-RBC was 2.47 µM BHA/g which was due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as polyphenol, flavonoids, lycopene, gingerol, ɣ-Oryzanol, and capsaicin. It was observed that the in-vitro protein/carbohydrate digestibility, in-vitro calcium bioavailability and real-time shelf-life (predicted) of RTE-RBC were 85%, 54%, and one year, respectively.

Effects of sprouting and fermentation on the formation of Maillard reaction products in different cereals heated as wholemeal

The concentration and composition of reducing sugars and free amino acids as Maillard reaction (MR) precursors change with grain sprouting. The formation of early and advanced glycation products, and α-dicarbonyl compounds as intermediates were monitored during heating native and sprouted wholemeals, as well as during heating of yeast and sourdough fermented native and sprouted wholemeals. Sprouting increased the concentration of all MR products because of an increase in reducing sugar concentrations. Although reducing sugars were lowered due to their consumption by yeasts, fermentation did not lower the furosine concentration. Sourdough fermentation unexpectedly increased furosine because the low pH caused glucose release from polysaccharides. Glyoxal, methylglyoxal and diacetyl were found to be formed as metabolites during yeast and sourdough fermentation. Another factor affecting the MR in sprouted/fermented wholemeals was revealed to be the increased amount of total free amino acids that compete with bound lysine to react with reducing sugars.

Stability of polyphenols in food processing

In recent years, polyphenols have attracted considerable attention due to their diverse potential health-beneficial effects on humans. Polyphenols are widely distributed in natural plants, and therefore play an important role in human food. Thermal processing, irradiation, fermentation, high pressure, microwave, and drying are several popular food processing methods. However, polyphenols are instable in food processing, which easily degrade and react with other components because of their polyhydroxy characteristic. Traditional and advanced technologies have been used to characterize the stability of polyphenols. The main influence factors of stability of polyphenols such as pH, temperature, light, oxygen, enzymes, metal ions, as well as macromolecules, are summarized. Besides, thermal processing greatly promoted the degradation of polyphenols. Thermal degradation mechanisms and products of some polyphenols, such as quercetin and rutin, have been intensively demonstrated. Nevertheless, the structural changes of polyphenols caused by food processing, may lead to different bioactivities from the obtained results based on unprocessed polyphenols. Therefore, to maximize the beneficial effects of polyphenols ingested by human from processed food, the stability of polyphenols in food processing must be thoroughly investigated to assess their real bioactivities. In addition, some available technologies for improving the stability of polyphenols in food processing have been proposed.

Differentiation of Penaeus vannamei from different thermal processing methods in physico-chemical, flavor and sensory characteristics

Differentiation in physico-chemical, flavor and sensory characteristics of shrimps (Penaeus vannamei) after direct roasting (DR, 200 °C), boiling (100 °C/2 min) + roasting (BR), steaming (100 °C/2 min) + roasting (SR) and microwaving (280 W/2 min) + roasting (MR) was investigated. BR, SR, and MR endowed shrimps with better texture to varying degrees and significantly (P < 0.05) increased lightness when compared to DR, which closely related to their different water status. High correlations between nuclear magnetic resonance data and quality properties were found by partial-least-squares regression (PLSR). Shrimps possessed by SR significantly (P < 0.05) increased the proportion of sweet amino acids (63.89 ± 0.92%), with superior umami and richness detected by electronic tongue. Compared with DR, both SR and MR endowed shrimps with richer ester, while BR endowed shrimps with richer hydrocarbons. Roasting combined with other thermal processing would favor improving the quality of shrimp products.

Impact of thermally induced wall breakage on the structural properties of water-soluble polysaccharides in chickpeas

The present work aimed to elucidate the influence of wall breakage induced by thermal processing on the molecular, structural, and antioxidant activities of water-soluble polysaccharides in chickpeas. Different extents of cell wall disruption were observed by fluorescence microscopy in chickpea cotyledons. Moreover, a decreasing fluorescence intensity of cell wall fragments was observed in the flour residues upon heat fluidization, autoclaving, and microwave heating, and the polysaccharide extraction rates were increased by 31.47%, 25.52%, and 9.79%, respectively. Furthermore, WPUCP, WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP (water-soluble polysaccharides from unprocessed, heat fluidized, microwaved, and autoclaved chickpeas, respectively) were RG-I (rhamnogalacturonan-I)-enriched pectic polysaccharides composed of galactose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, and rhamnose. After chickpea thermal processing, the degrees of branching decreased to 2.87, 3.79, and 2.53 in WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP, respectively, and the molecular weights were reduced by 46.46%, 24.83%, and 59.91%, respectively. Structural analysis showed that the semicrystalline regions of WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP were slightly damaged without changing the functional groups, but their thermal stability decreased. Interestingly, WPACP formed an ordered conformation (microporous network structure) through the formation of hydrogen bonds. Moreover, the antioxidant activities of WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP were enhanced, and the strongest radical scavenging activity was observed for WPHCP.

Response to "Non-thermal microwave effects: Conceptual and methodological problems"

The objective of this response letter is to expose the reader of Food Chemistry to the most recent advances and discussions about non-thermal effects of microwaves on microorganisms and enzymes. Although these effects showed to be too subtle for any practical use in food processing, experimental and molecular dynamics studies bring evidences that electric fields at low frequencies or with high intensity can have non-thermal effects, such as activity changes in enzymes during ohmic processing or electroporation of cells in pulsed electric field processing. This brief review broadens the scope of this controversial topic to show that innovative experiments and simulations are collaborating with the advance of emerging electro technologies in food processing. .

Effect of thermal processing on quality of tender jackfruit in tin-free-steel cans

Thermal processing is the most efficient and economical technique for the long-term preservation of tender jackfruit in ready-to-cook form on a commercial-scale. Although, thermal processing primarily focus on microbiological safety of the product, the associated quality changes need to be examined as it is decisive of consumer acceptance. The present study investigated the effect of two pasteurization (90 and 100 °C) and sterilization temperatures (110 and 121 °C) at different lethality on microbiological, colour, texture, ascorbic acid (AA), total flavonoid (TFC) and phenol (TPC) contents of tender jackfruit processed in tin-free-steel (TFS) cans. Time required for thermal processing was computed from respective heat penetration curve. Thermal processing improved both the TFC and TPC of tender jackfruit, while colour, texture and AA had degraded. Based on microbiological and physicochemical quality analyses, the study adjudged pasteurization at 90 °C for 19 min and sterilization at 121 °C for 8 min as the best temperature-time combination for thermal processing of tender jackfruit in TFS cans.

Comparison of freshly squeezed, Non-thermally and thermally processed orange juice based on traditional quality characters, untargeted metabolomics, and volatile overview

The NOVA food classification system, divides foods into four categories, namely unprocessed and minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods, and ultra-processed foods. With the recently increasing pursuit of healthy diets, special attention to minimally processed foods has become crucial. According to NOVA, freshly squeezed, high pressure processing (HPP) and pasteurized orange juice are minimally processed foods. In this study, the differences in the quality and composition of these minimally processed juice are explored, as it was found that their traditional quality characteristics were too weak to illustrate their difference. However, based on untargeted metabolomics, two differential compounds were identified between freshly squeezed and HPP orange juice, in addition to 15 differential compounds between freshly squeezed and pasteurized orange juice. Moreover, all the pasteurized orange juice in this study was deemed to be out of the acceptance area of freshly squeezed and HPP orange juice in a data-driven soft independent modeling of class analogy (dd-SIMCA) model based on volatile overview. The results of this study provide data for clarifying the compositional differences between minimally processed juice for their further subclassification.

Comprehensive proteomic analysis of sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus) in thermal processing by HPLC-MS/MS

Thermal processing is the most frequently adopted processing technology for sea cucumbers, which can significantly affect their protein composition. In this paper, three thermal processing methods high pressure steaming (HPS), atmospheric pressure boiling (APB), and atmospheric pressure steaming (APS) were adopted and protein compositions of both body walls and cooking liquors by thermal processing stichopus japonicus were systematically analysis by proteomic strategy. The total proteins loss rates of body walls were 11.6%, 13.0%, and 14.8% for HPS, APS, and APB methods, respectively. However, the main types of protein composition were retained. Similar mechanisms of protein loss may exist even if different thermal processing were applied. The most frequent hydrolysis sites in thermal processing were phenylalanine, leucine, asparagine, and tyrosine at both C and N terminals. This study provides theoretical guidance for optimizing the industry thermal processing of sea cucumbers.

Rapid detection and quantitation of dipicolinic acid from Clostridium botulinum spores using mixed-mode liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Analysis of the dipicolinic acid (DPA) released from Clostridium botulinum spores during thermal processing is crucial to obtaining a mechanistic understanding of the factors involved in spore heat resistance and related food safety applications. Here, we developed a novel mixed-mode liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for detection of the DPA released from C. botulinum type A, nonproteolytic types B and F strains, and nonpathogenic surrogate Clostridium sporogenes PA3679 spores. DPA was retained on a mixed-mode C18/anion exchange column and was detected using electrospray ionization (ESI) positive mode within a 4-min analysis time. The intraday and interday precision (%CV) was 1.94-3.46% and 4.04-8.28%, respectively. Matrix effects were minimal across proteolytic type A Giorgio-A, nonproteolytic types QC-B and 202-F, and C. sporogenes PA3679 spore suspensions (90.1-114% of spiked DPA concentrations). DPA recovery in carrot juice and beef broth ranged from 105 to 118%, indicating limited matrix effects of these food products. Experiments that assessed the DPA released from Giorgio-A spores over the course of a 5-min thermal treatment at 108 °C found a significant correlation (R = 0.907; P < 0.05) between the log reduction of spores and amount of DPA released. This mixed-mode LC-MS/MS method provides a means for rapid detection of DPA released from C. botulinum spores during thermal processing and has the potential to be used for experiments in the field of food safety that assess the thermal resistance characteristics of various C. botulinum spore types.

The processing factors of canning and pasteurization for the most frequently occurring fungicides and insecticides in apples and their application into dietary risk assessment

The challenge of the present comprehensive work was to study, from apple orchards to consumer's plate, the influence of high- and low-temperature thermal treatments on the most frequently occurring fungicides (boscalid, captan, pyraclostrobin) and insecticides (acetamiprid, methoxyfenozide) in apples and processing factor (PF) application for more realistic dietary risk assessment in the new EFSA methodology. Dry pasteurization and canning combined with previous preliminary treatment gave PFs = 0.25-1.8 of the five active substances. Acute exposure (expressed as %ARfD) in the raw commodity was demonstrated to be 168.1% for acetamiprid in the worst case (input - highest residue) and 307.9% for boscalid in the most critical case (input - MRL), and after re-calculation for PF, decreased to 139.5% for acetamiprid in canned product and 203.2% for boscalid in pasteurized apples. These novel data may be helpful in estimating new threshold residue levels significant in food safety especially intended for children.

Assessment of Dry Heating, Water Rinsing, and Baking on Concentrations of the Opium Alkaloid Noscapine in Poppy Seeds

Limited information is available on methods to reduce concentrations of the opium alkaloid noscapine in poppy seeds. A series of experiment were conducted using poppy seeds to evaluate the impact of thermal treatments, water rinsing, and baking on noscapine concentrations. A sample set of commercially available poppy seeds (n=15) was screened for noscapine using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The mean and median noscapine concentrations for poppy seed samples above the limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 89.9 and 28.4 mg kg^-1, respectively. Six out of 15 samples were less than the LOQ. Poppy seed samples containing a mean noscapine concentration of 121 mg kg^-1 were subjected to dry heat treatments ranging from 120-200 °C and a 5 min rinse with water. Baking experiments were also done by incorporating the poppy seeds into a muffin batter and baking in an oven at 200 °C. The dry heat treatment experiments showed that noscapine degraded at 160-200 °C, with a 50% loss of noscapine observed after 3.44 ± 0.46 min at 200 °C. Although the mean concentration of noscapine decreased when a muffin containing poppy seeds was baked at 200 °C for 16 min, these changes were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Rinsing the poppy seeds with water did not have a significant effect on noscapine concentrations. Together, these data allow for better characterization of potential dietary exposure to noscapine and indicate that certain thermal treatments can be effective for reduction of noscapine in poppy seeds.

Insight into IgG/IgE binding ability, in vitro digestibility and structural changes of shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) soluble extracts with thermal processing

The effects of six kinds of thermal processing on soluble protein recovery, potential allergenicity, in vitro digestibility and structural characteristics of shrimp soluble proteins were evaluated. Obtained results confirmed soluble protein recovery and IgG/IgE reactivity of shrimp soluble extracts were markedly suppressed by various thermal treatments with enhanced digestibility depended on the extent and type of heating applied, which correlated well with the structural alterations and modification. The maximum reduction of IgG/IgE-binding capacity and digestive stability were observed in the autoclaved shrimps because of unfolding of protein and hydrophobic residues exposed. Notably, tropomyosin (TM) and sarcoplasmic calcium-binding protein (SCP) were still IgG/IgE-reactive in various heat-processed shrimps, even higher IgG reactivity were found in heat-treated shrimps TM according to TM antiserum western-blotting and indirect ELISA results. Shrimp TM and SCP maintains its IgE/IgG-binding capacity after various cooking methods, thus most probably initiating allergic sensitization to both raw and cooked shrimps.

Feed form and nutritional level for rearing growing broilers in thermoneutral or heat stress environments

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different physical forms of feed and feeding programs on nutrient digestibility and performance of grower-finisher broilers under thermoneutrality or thermal stress. Three experiments were conducted using male broiler chickens (n = 720) aged 19-42 d. The design of two of the experiments was fully randomized in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two forms of feed (mash and pellet) and two nutritional levels (13.19 MJ/kg and 194.8 g/kg CP - normal level and 13.61 MJ/kg and 210.3 g/kg CP - high level). The experiments took place in a climate-controlled room: Experiment 1 at thermoneutrality (21-23 °C and 58-60% relative humidity) for 24 h/day; Experiment 2 under thermal stress cycle (31-32 °C and 63-65% relative humidity), for 6h/day and thermoneutrality (21-23 °C, 58-60% relative humidity) for 18h/day. The nutrient digestibility and performance was analyzed. The design of the third experiment was fully randomized with two ambient condition treatments (thermoneutral and thermal stress) on heat production, caloric increment and net energy. Pellet feed obtained higher digestibility of dry matter, digestibility of crude protein, AME and AMEn (P < 0.05) than mash feed for broilers reared in the thermoneutral environment. At the high nutritional level there was no effect of treatments on the coefficient of dry matter and crude protein (DCCP) (P > 0.05), while the highest digestibility of AME and AMEn were obtained by the high nutritional level diet (P < 0.05). Pellet feed had higher DCCP (P < 0.05) than mash feed for broilers reared under cyclic heat stress. Broiler chickens under cyclic stress experienced increased caloric increment, rectal temperature and respiratory rate. The appropriate strategy to minimize these effects in both ambient conditions is to pellet feed.

Effects of whey protein on the in vitro digestibility and physicochemical properties of potato starch

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of whey protein isolate (WPI) on the digestibility and physicochemical properties of potato starch (PS) after heat treatment. WPI reduced the digestibility of PS and increased the order and aggregation structure of gelatinized PS. Examination of the rheological properties of the PS-WPI mixed system before and after adding different chemicals (sodium chloride, urea, and sodium dodecyl sulfate) indicated an involvement of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions in the PS-WPI gelatinization system. The pasting properties, swelling power, and thermal properties indicated that WPI suppressed the swelling and gelatinization of PS. The addition of WPI reduced the amylose leaching rate from the starch granules, indicating that the presence of exogenous protein could prevent amylose diffusion from the starch granules. Native WPI and its hydrolysate also inhibited amyloglucosidase activity. These findings indicated that the mechanism by which WPI reduces PS digestion involves hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding between WPI and PS, as well as enzyme activity inhibition.

Effects of thermal processing on N,N-dimethylpiperidinium (mepiquat) formation in meat and vegetable products

N,N-dimethylpiperidinium (mepiquat) is an important food contaminant formed from natural ingredients during thermal processing. In this study, mepiquat formation in meat (pork and beef) and vegetables (potatoes and broccoli) was investigated via HPLC-MS/MS; the investigated cooking methods were oven baking, pan cooking, deep frying, and microwaving. The results showed that, among all foods, oven-baked potatoes showed the highest mepiquat level of 1064 μg/kg, which appeared after 20 min at 240 °C. The residual rates of mepiquat precursors, pipecolic acid (PipAc), betaine, choline, and trigonelline, were determined in oven-baked potatoes to investigate their correlation with mepiquat formation. The PipAc levels reduced by 99.8% at 260 °C after 30 min of oven baking, exhibiting a significantly high decomposition rate. Therefore, PipAc could be used as a marker of quality for the detection of mepiquat in thermally processed foodstuffs.

Insight into the evolution of aroma compounds during thermal processing of surimi gel from silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)

This study aimed to investigate the formation of odor properties in surimi products by exploring changes in aroma compounds and their precursors at setting (40 °C) and gelling (90 °C) stages during surimi gel formation by solvent-assisted flavor evaporation, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and ultra performance liquid chromatography. Results revealed a gradual increase in the contents of most aldehydes, alcohols, and phenolics during surimi gel formation, while a decrease in the contents of (E)-2-pentenal, (E)-2-hexnenal, (Z)-4-heptenal, (E)-2-heptenal, and most ketones at gelling stage. During thermal process, 50 % decrease was observed in the contents of some unsaturated fatty acids (palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, etc.), and the contents of tyrosine, phenylalanine, methionine, isoleucine, and leucine decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at gelling stage. Moreover, lipoxygenase activity reached 4.19-4.81 U/min·g at setting stage. Overall, amino acid degradation and lipid auto-oxidation mainly occurred at gelling stage to promote the formation of related compounds.

Occurrence of Ethyl Carbamate in Foods and Beverages: Review of the Formation Mechanisms, Advances in Analytical Methods, and Mitigation Strategies

ABSTRACT

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is a process contaminant that can be formed as a by-product during fermentation and processing of foods and beverages. Elevated EC concentrations are primarily associated with distilled spirits, but this compound has also been found at lower concentrations in foods and beverages, including breads, soy sauce, and wine. Evidence from animal studies suggests that EC is a probable human carcinogen. Consequently, several governmental institutions have established allowable limits for EC in the food supply. This review includes EC formation mechanisms, occurrence of EC in the food supply, and EC dietary exposure assessments. Current analytical methods used to detect EC will be covered, in addition to emerging technologies, such as nanosensors and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Various mitigation methods have been used to maintain EC concentrations below allowable limits, including distillation, enzymatic treatments, and genetic engineering of yeast. More research in this field is needed to refine mitigation strategies and develop methods to rapidly detect EC in the food supply.

HIGHLIGHTS

Influence of thermal processing on flavor and sensory profile of sturgeon meat

Sensory analysis and instrumental techniques were used to investigate the effect of thermal processing on sturgeon meat flavor. A lexicon consisted of 26 descriptors was established for the sensory evaluation of raw and steamed sturgeon meat (4, 8, 12, 16, 20 min at 100 °C). Ten odor attributes generated by Check-all-that-apply and Free Choice Profiling methods were selected as characteristic descriptors, which were "fishy, meaty, oily/fatty, salty, umami, ammonia/rancid, grass, fresh, earthy, and visceral". Aroma compounds were extracted by headspace-solid phase micro extraction (HS-SPME). A total of 63 and 62 volatiles were identified by gas chromatography equipped with mass spectrometry and olfactometry (GC-MS-O) and GC-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS). Phospholipids accounted for 67.05% in 173 differential metabolites identified via untargeted metabolomics. 47 kinds of phosphatidylethanolamines were significantly correlated with the formation of aldehydes. This study provides a theoretical basis for regulating the flavor formation of thermal-processed aquatic products.

Oral retention of thermally denatured whey protein: In vivo measurement and structural observations by CD and NMR

This study investigated structural changes and the in vivo retention in the oral cavity of heated whey protein concentrate (WPC). Heated WPC was shown to have both a higher retention time in the oral cavity compared to unheated whey protein up to 1 min post swallow, and a concomitant increase in free thiol concentration. Nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism demonstrated structural changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of the WPC upon heating. Structural loss of the β-barrel was shown to increase during heating, leading to the exposure of hydrophobic regions. The increase in free thiols and hydrophobic regions are two factors which are known to increase mucoadhesive strength and hence increase oral retention of heated whey protein which may subsequently increase the perception of mouthdrying.

Thermal processing of insect allergens and IgE cross-recognition in Italian patients allergic to shrimp, house dust mite and mealworm

Edible insects are considered as a promising and sustainable alternative protein source for humans, although risk assessments, with particular reference to the allergic potential of insect proteins, are required. Considering that insects are likely to be consumed after processing, it is crucial to assess how processing can influence allergenicity. In our study, we investigated how boiling and frying affect the IgE cross-recognition of proteins from five edible insects (mealworm, buffalo worm, silkworm, cricket and grasshopper). We considered three groups of Italian patients allergic to shrimps and to house dust mites, who had never consumed insects before and two subjects with occupational allergy and food sensitization to mealworm. Our data suggest that thermal processing may change the solubility of proteins, thereby resulting in a protein shift from water-soluble fractions to water-insoluble fractions. Immunoblot and LC-MS/MS analyses have shown that tropomyosin may play an important role as a cross-allergen for house dust mite and shrimp allergic patients, while larval cuticle protein seems to play a major role in the cross-reactivity of patients primarily sensitized to mealworm. On the basis of our results, the effects of processing appear to be protein-, species- and treatment-specific. Therefore, house dust mite, shrimp and mealworm allergic patients should consume insects with caution, even after thermal processing.

Agricultural and non-agricultural directions of bio-based sewage sludge valorization by chemical conditioning

This literature review outlines the most important-agricultural and non-agricultural-types of sewage sludge management. The potential of waste sludge protein hydrolysates obtained by chemical sludge conditioning was reported. The discussed areas include acidic and alkaline hydrolysis, lime conditioning, polyelectrolyte dewatering and other supporting techniques such as ultrasounds, microwave or thermal methods. The legislative aspects related to the indication of the development method and admission to various applications based on specified criteria were discussed. Particular attention was devoted to the legally regulated content of toxic elements: cadmium, lead, nickel, mercury, chromium and microelements that may be toxic: copper and zinc. Various methods of extracting valuable proteins from sewage sludge have been proposed: chemical, physical and enzymatic. While developing the process concept, you need to consider extraction efficiency (time, temperature, humidity, pH), drainage efficiency of post-extraction residues and directions of their management. The final process optimization is crucial. Despite the development of assumptions for various technologies, excess sewage sludge remains a big problem for sewage treatment plants. The high costs of enzymatic hydrolysis, thermal hydrolysis and ultrasonic methods and the need for a neutralizing agent in acid solubilization limit the rapid implementation of these processes in industrial practice.