The study of the aroma profile characteristics of durian pulp during storage by the combination sampling method coupled with GC–MS

Comparative analysis of volatile compound profiles of propolis from different provenances

BACKGROUND

Propolis is a complex mixture that honey bees produce from the exudates of various plants and presents many medicinal properties. Its chemical composition varies according to the phytogeography characteristics of each region, among others. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Venezuelan propolis and compare with reference samples such as Brazilian and Argentinian propolis.

RESULTS

A total of 90 VOCs were identified in a series of propolis samples using both solid-phase microextraction and dynamic headspace (DHS), both coupled to a gas chromatograph-electron ionization mass spectrometer. In the case of Venezuelan propolis, sesquiterpenes, esters, aromatic compounds, and aliphatic hydrocarbons were identified. Limonene was found only in Venezuelan samples, this being the first time it has been identified in samples from this country. In the case of green propolis, β-caryophyllene and nerolidol were the major compounds. As for the Argentinian samples, prenyl acetate, benzyl acetate, and 2-phenylethyl acetate were detected only in these samples.

CONCLUSIONS

Possible chemical markers of natural sources such as limonene were detected using DHS extraction. Several compounds have also been identified for the first time in Venezuelan propolis. Cluster analysis allowed the relating of the propolis VOCs profile to their provenance. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of temperature-controlled fermentation on physico-chemical properties and lactic acid bacterial count of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) pulp

Effects of controlled-temperature fermentation on several physico-chemical properties, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) counts and aroma of durian pulp were examined by storing fresh durian pulp was mixed with 2 % (w/w) salt and stored at 15 °C, 27 °C and 40 °C for 10 days. Storage at 15 °C did not affect the properties of the pulp much. However, at 27 °C and 40 °C, pH and total soluble solids decreased up to 60 % and 52 %, respectively, with greater losses at 27 °C. Titratable acidity, which increased at 27 °C, was due to lactic and acetic acids formation. Loss of sucrose and increases in glucose were greater at 27 °C. LAB population increased up to Day 3 of storage, and then decreased slightly. Principal component analysis based on aroma examination using a zNose(TM) showed better retention of aroma profile at 27 °C. Overall, durian fermented at 27 °C was more acceptable than the one prepared at 40 °C, and it is ready to be consumed between Day 4 and 6.