Characterization of Aroma-Active Compounds in Four Yeast Extracts Using Instrumental and Sensory Techniques

Unraveling chemical changes associated with the sensory quality of Chinese steamed bread as altered by wheat flour type

Chinese steamed bread (CSB) is an important staple of the Chinese people, and its flavor profile is mostly affected by wheat varieties among others. This study selected wheat flour made from three different wheat varieties and investigated their contribution to the CSB flavor profile in terms of metabolism. Thirteen aroma-active compounds identified by GC-O were determined as the main contributors to the different aroma profiles of three CSBs. 350 sensory trait-related metabolites were obtained from five key modules via weighted gene co-expression network analysis. It was found that the sensory characteristics of CSBs made of different wheat flour were significantly different. The higher abundance of lipids in Yongliang No.4 (YL04) wheat flour was converted to large number of fatty acids in fermented dough, which led to the bitterness of CSB. Besides, the abundance in organic acids and fatty acids contributed to the sour, milky, wetness and roughness attributes of YL04-CSB. More fatty amides and flavonoids in Jiangsu Red Durum wheat flour contributed to the fermented and winey attributes of CSB. Carbohydrates with higher abundance in Canadian wheat flour was involved in sugar-amine reaction and glucose conversion, which enhanced the sweetness of CSB. In addition, fatty acids, organic acids, amino acids, and glucose were crucial metabolites which can further formed into various characteristic compounds such as hexanal, hexanol, 2,3-butanediol, acetoin, and 2,3-butanedione and thus contributed to the winey, fresh sweet, and green aroma properties. This study is conductive to better understand the evolution of the compounds that affect the quality and aroma of CSBs.

An insight into trichomes-deficiency and trichomes-rich black teas by comparative metabolomics: The impact of oxidized trichomes on metabolic profiles and infusion color

Tea trichomes were regarded as an essential evaluation index for reflecting tea flavor quality in terms of aroma and influence on infusion color. This study reveals the impact of golden oxidized trichomes on the color, volatile and non-volatile metabolites of black teas through comparative metabolomics combined quantitative analysis on hongbiluo (trichomes-deficiency black teas), hongjinluo (trichomes-rich black teas), and trichomes (from hongjinluo). Forty-six volatile components were detected using headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, while the results suggested that the contribution of trichomes to black teas is limited. A total of 60 marker non-volatile compounds were identified, including catechins, catechin oxidation products, flavonoid glycosides, organic acids, hydrolysable tannins and amino acids. Notably, p-coumaroyl-kaempferol glucosides, and catechin dimers demonstrated high levels in independent trichomes and showed a positive correlation with the brightness and yellow hue of black tea infusions, specifically kaempferol 3-O-di-(p-coumaroyl)-hexoside. Furthermore, results from fractional extraction analysis of separated trichomes provided that N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone-substituted epicatechin gallates, acylated kaempferol glycosides, and chromogenic catechins dimers, such as theaflavins, were primary color contributors in oxidized trichomes. Especially, we found that epicatechin gallate (ECG) and its derivates, 3'-O-methyl-ECG and N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone-substituted ECG, highly accumulated in trichomes, which may be associated with the varieties of hongbiluo and hongjinluo black teas. Eventually, addition tests were applied to verify the color contribution of trichome mixtures. Our findings employed comprehensive information revealing that golden oxidized trichomes contributed significantly to the brightness and yellow hue of black tea infusion, but their contribution to the aroma and metabolic profile is limited. These findings may contribute to the effective modulation of the infusion color during black tea production by regulating the proportion of tea trichomes or screening trichomes-rich or deficiency varieties.

Generation of Olfactory Compounds in Cat Food Attractants: Chicken Liver-Derived Protein Hydrolysates and Their Contribution to Enhancing Palatability

The present study investigated the impact of four chicken liver protein hydrolysate-based cat food attractants on palatability. Aroma compounds were analyzed in these attractants, which were subsequently sprayed onto four different types of cat foods. Results revealed that CF4 exhibited the highest intake ratio and the first choice ratio, followed by CF2 sample. Orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) demonstrated significant differences among 50 volatile compounds identified from the four cat foods. Using variable importance in projection (VIP) values, we selected 17 key flavor compounds responsible for distinguishing between the four cat foods. Peptides with a molecular mass <180 Da showed correlation with nonanoic acid and cedrol, while those >3000 Da correlated with hexanoic acid ethyl ester. Regression coefficients (RCs) calculated from partial least-squares regression (PLSR) results showed positive correlations between compound content and palatability for six compounds, whereas negative correlations were observed for ten compounds. Validation experiments confirmed that nonanal, 2-propylpyridine, and 3-octen-2-one enhanced palatability and correlated with peptides ranging from 180 to 500 Da; conversely, nonanoic acid ethyl ester and 3-methyl-pentanoic acid reduced palatability and correlated with peptides ranging from 1000 to 3000 Da.

Difference comparison of characteristic aroma compounds between braised pork cooked by traditional open-fire and induction cooker and the potential formation cause under electromagnetic cooking

The characteristic aroma compounds of braised pork were identified through molecular sensory science and PLSR analysis, and the difference between two cooking methods, traditional open-fire (BPF) and induction cooker (BPC), was compared. Seventeen aroma compounds with odor activity values (OAVs) > 1 were identified in both samples. BPF revealed higher OAVs for most of the aroma compounds compared to BPC, and the higher aroma quality. Aroma recombination and omission experiments confirmed that twelve aroma compounds significantly contributed to the characteristic aroma of braised pork, and eight compounds such as hexanal, (E)-2-octenal, and methanethiol were further confirmed as important contributors by PLSR analysis. Furthermore, PLSR analysis clarified the role of aldehydes such as hexanal, (E)-2-octenal, and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal in contributing to fatty attribute, whereas methanethiol was responsible for the meaty aroma. These characteristic aroma compounds mainly derived from lean meat due to its high content of phospholipids, and the exogenous seasonings contributed to the balanced characteristic aroma profile of braised pork by altering the distribution of these characteristic aroma compounds. Variations in heating parameters affected the formation of lipid oxidation and Strecker degradation products, which might explain aroma discrepancy between braised pork cooked by two methods with different heat transfer efficiencies.

Creating alternative seafood flavour from non-animal ingredients: A review of key flavour molecules relevant to seafood

This review summarises current knowledge of the molecular basis for flavour profiles of popular seafood types (crustacean (crab, lobster, prawn, etc.), mollusc (oyster, squid, etc.), oily fish (salmon, sardine, etc.) and white fish (barramundi, turbot, etc.)), and provides a foundation for formulating improved plant-based seafood alternative (PBSA) flavours. Key odour-active volatile molecules were identified from a systematic review of published olfactometry studies and taste-active compounds and macronutrient profiles of different seafood species and commercial PBSAs from nutrition databases were compared. Ingredients commonly used in commercial BPSAs and new potential sources of flavouring agents are evaluated. While significant challenges in replicating seafood flavour and texture remain, this review provides some insights into how plant-based ingredients could be applied to improve the acceptability of PBSAs.

Comparison of Pivot Profile (PP), Rate-All-That-Apply (RATA), and Pivot-CATA for the sensory profiling of commercial Chinese tea products

Rapid sensory profiling methods relying on consumers' perceptions are getting prevalent and broadly utilized by labs and companies to supersede conventional sensory profiling methodologies. Till now, various intensity-based sensory methods such as the newly proposed Pivot-Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) are limitedly developed and compared. In this investigation, Pivot Profile (PP), Rate-All-That-Apply (RATA), and Pivot-CATA methods were applied and validated using tea consumers and commercial Chinese tea products as samples. Data from three approaches were collected, analyzed by correspondence analysis (CA), and used to compare the three methods assessing the panel assessment process, sensory maps, confidence ellipses, and practical applications. Pivot-CATA exhibited a high similarity with RATA (RV = 0.873), and a lower similarity with PP (RV = 0.629). Of the three intensity-related methods, confidence ellipses on the RATA sensory map were the smallest and overlapped the least. However, Pivot-CATA consumed less time in collecting data and its questionnaire was more friendly to participants compared with PP and made the difference in intensity of samples more noticeable to the participants than RATA due to the existence of the pivot sample. Its experimental versatility also allows for a wide range of applications, indicating that the Pivot-CATA is an approach with great promise for routine use.

Decoding the Different Aroma-Active Compounds in Soy Sauce for Cold Dishes via a Multiple Sensory Evaluation and Instrumental Analysis

Screening the suitability of soy sauce for specific cooking methods from various products is beneficial for the fine development of the soy sauce industry. Multiple sensory evaluation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry (GC-MS/O) analysis were combined to decode the suitability of soy sauces for cold dishes and characterize their differential aroma-active compounds. Thirty-two kinds of soy sauce with 42 sensory descriptors were determined via a check-all-that-apply analysis, and werefurther classified into six categories via a cluster analysis. The sensory evaluation results showed that seven soy sauce samples had the highest acceptance in each category. Solid-phase microextraction and solid phase extraction results combined with the GC-MS/O analysis results showed that a total of 38 aroma-active compounds were identified in seven soy sauce samples, among which 2-methoxy-phenol (6-93), ethyl acetate (2-48), 3-methyl-1-butanol (4-30), 3-methyl-butanal (5-24), methional (0-22), dimethyl trisulfide (5-19) and dimethyl disulfide (0-8) showed a higher relative odor activity value (ROAV). A partial least squares regression prediction combined with additional tests further confirmed that 2,5-dimethyl-pyrazine; 2,6-dimethyl-pyrazine; and 2-ethyl-6-methyl-pyrazine significantly contributed to the roasted attributes, methional significantly contributed to the sauce-like notes, ethanol significantly contributed to the alcoholic notes and 2-methoxy-phenol significantly contributed to the smoky notes. 2,5-Dimethyl-pyrazine; methional; 2,6-dimethyl-pyrazine and 2-ethyl-6-methyl-pyrazine significantly contributed to the caramel-like attributes.

Characterization of the Key Aroma Compounds in Different Yeast Proteins by GC-MS/O, Sensory Evaluation, and E-Nose

The unique odors of yeast proteins (YPs) are decisive for their application in meat substitutes. Sensory evaluation, electronic nose, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactory (GC-MS/O) were combined to characterize the aroma profiles and aroma-active compounds of YPs. The sensory evaluation results indicate that the sweaty aroma had the strongest intensity in YP #10, followed by rice bran, sour, and plastic. The electronic nose could effectively distinguish the aroma differences among five YPs. A total of 27 aroma-active compounds in the five YPs were identified by GC-MS/O. The concentration of 2-methyl-propanoic acid (6.37 μg/kg), butanoic acid (47.46 μg/kg), 3-methyl-butanoic acid (22.50 μg/kg), and indole (943.40 μg/kg) in YP #10's aroma was higher than that of the other YPs. The partial least squares regression method results show that o-cresol, (3S)-3,7-dimethyloct-7-en-1-ol, benzyl alcohol, octanal, 2-methyl-propanoic acid, butanoic acid, 3-methyl-butanoic acid, hexanal, heptanal, and indole were predicted as the potential aroma-active compounds significantly contributing to the aroma profiles of the five YPs. Addition experiments confirmed that the overall aroma profile intensities of the five YP samples were extended with the addition of these ten compounds, verifying their significant contributions.

Impact of Ageing on Ultrasound-Treated Lees on Volatile Composition and Sensory Properties of Red Sparkling Base Wine

Ageing on lees can be a good technique to enhance the quality of red sparkling base wines. Ultrasound treatment of the lees, prior to addition to the wine, can improve the releasing of their components into the wine. This study carries out a four month ageing on lees of a red sparkling base wine by the addition of lees sonicated at different amplitude levels: 30%, 60% and 90% for 10 min. The ageing on ultrasound-treated lees improved the quality of the red base wine, with a greater impact the higher the amplitude of the applied ultrasound. Sonicated lees at an amplitude of 90% enlarged the concentration of neutral polysaccharides in the wine and reduced its astringency, which was evaluated chemically. Furthermore, this treatment enhanced the concentration of some volatile compounds in the wine, mainly acetates, esters and terpenes with floral and fruity aromatic notes. This trend was also found for some fused alcohols, contributing to the aromatic complexity of wines, as well as for 2-phenylethanol, an alcohol with a rose-like aroma, and also for C6-alcohols with a green-herbaceous aroma. The results indicate that ultrasonication is a promising tool to increase the benefits of ageing on lees on the quality of red sparkling base wines.

Identification of volatile compounds and metabolic pathway during ultrasound-assisted kombucha fermentation by HS-SPME-GC/MS combined with metabolomic analysis

The current work combines headspace solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC/MS) with multivariate analysis fusion metabonomics for examining metabolite profile changes. The correlation with metabolic pathways during the fermentation of kombucha tea were comprehensively explored. For optimizing the fermentation process, ultrasound-assisted factors were explored. A total of 132 metabolites released by fermented kombucha were detected by HS-SPME-GC/MS. We employed the principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) to present the relationship between aroma components and fermentation time, of which the first two principal components respectively accounted for 60.3% and 6.5% of the total variance. Multivariate statistical analysis showed that during the fermentation of kombucha tea, there were significant differences in the phenotypes of metabolites in the samples, and 25 characteristic metabolites were selected as biomarkers. Leaf alcohol was first proposed as the characteristic volatile in the fermentation process of kombucha. Furthermore, we addressed the generation pathways of characteristic volatiles, their formation mechanisms, and the transformational correlation among them. Our findings provide a roadmap for future kombucha fermentation processing to enhance kombucha flavor and aroma.

Geographical differentiation of Molixiang table grapes grown in China based on volatile compounds analysis by HS-GC-IMS coupled with PCA and sensory evaluation of the grapes

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Volatile fingerprints of three Molixiang grapes were established using HS-GC-IMS.

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GC-IMS coupled with PCA could distinguished the three Molixiang grapes well.

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Sensory evaluation revealed significant (P ≤ 0.05) difference among the three samples.

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E-2-octenal, styrene and benzaldehyde were potential geographical marker compounds.

In this study, the volatile fingerprints of GC-IMS showed great differences on the volatile profiles of Molixiang grapes collected from three different regions of China, which suggested that aroma of table grapes could be largely impacted by origin areas. Butyl lactate, E-2-octenal and Z-2-pentanol were mainly contained in MLX-A, the grapes sampled from Ningbo, China. High contents of p-cymene, styrene and γ-terpinene were observed in MLX-B grapes sampled from Beizhen, China. In addition, benzaldehyde and methyl benzoate were major contained in MLX-C grapes sampled from Zhangzhou, China. The PCA results revealed effective differentiation of samples from different geographical origin based on the information obtained from GC-IMS. Furthermore, sensory evaluation showed that the aroma characters of grapes from different geographical origin were significantly different (P ≤ 0.05). E-2-octenal, styrene and benzaldehyde might serve as the geographical marker compounds of origin area based on the results of GC-IMS analysis and sensory evaluation.

Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography as a Powerful Strategy for the Exploration of Broas Volatile Composition

Broa is a Portuguese maize bread with characteristic sensory attributes that can only be achieved using traditional maize varieties. This study intends to disclose the volatile compounds that are mainly associated with the baking process of broas, which can be important contributors to their aroma. Twelve broas were prepared from twelve maize flours (eleven traditional maize varieties and one commercial hybrid). Their volatile compounds were analyzed by GC×GC–ToFMS (two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry) for an untargeted screening of the chemical compounds mainly formed during baking. It was possible to identify 128 volatiles that belonged to the main chemical families formed during this stage. Among these, only 16 had been previously detected in broas. The most abundant were furans, furanones, and pyranones, but the most relevant for the aroma of broas were ascribed to sulfur-containing compounds, in particular dimethyl trisulfide and methanethiol. Pyrazines might contribute negatively to the aroma of broas since they were present in higher amounts in the commercial broa. This work constitutes the most detailed study of the characterization of broas volatile compounds, particularly those formed during the Maillard reaction. These findings may contribute to the characterization of other maize-based foodstuffs, ultimately improving the production of foods with better sensory features.

Variation of Volatile Compounds and Corresponding Aroma Profiles in Chinese Steamed Bread by Various Yeast Species Fermented at Different Times

To control the fermentation process of yeast-Chinese steamed bread (CSB), the volatile compounds and odor profiles of yeast-CSBs during fermentation were comprehensively investigated by sensory evaluation, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O), and odor activity value (OAV). Eight sensory attributes were established, and quantitative descriptive analysis results showed that CF1303-CSB had intense sweet and sweet aftertaste attributes, CF1318-CSB was characterized by milky, wheaty, and yeasty attributes, while CL10138-CSB presented distinct sour, winy, and floury attributes. A total of 41 key aroma-active compounds were detected, and phenylethyl alcohol was the most potent aroma compound with a flavor dilution (FD) of 1024. CF1303-CSB, CF1318-CSB, and CL10138-CSB contained 24, 22, and 21 key aroma compounds, respectively, based on the OAV. These key aroma compounds can be used as the potential markers to monitor the yeast-CSBs during the fermentation process. Five compounds, including β-myrcene, 2-phenoxyethanol, methyl cinnamate, guaiacol, and o-cresol, were first identified in CSB. These results provide theoretical basis for processing and quality control of yeast-CSBs.

Effect of Yellowing Duration on the Chemical Profile of Yellow Tea and the Associations with Sensory Traits

The yellowing process is the crucial step to form the characteristic sensory and chemical properties of yellow tea. To investigate the chemical changes and the associations with sensory traits during yellowing, yellow teas with different yellowing times (0–13 h) were prepared for sensory evaluation and chemical analysis. The intensities of umami and green-tea aroma were reduced whereas sweet taste, mellow taste and sweet aroma were increased under long-term yellowing treatment. A total of 230 chemical constituents were determined, among which 25 non-volatiles and 42 volatiles were the key chemical contributors to sensory traits based on orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA), multiple factor analysis (MFA) and multidimensional alignment (MDA) analysis. The decrease in catechins, flavonol glycosides and caffeine and the increase in certain amino acids contributed to the elevated sweet taste and mellow taste. The sweet, woody and herbal odorants and the fermented and fatty odorants were the key contributors to the characteristic sensory feature of yellow tea with sweet aroma and over-oxidation aroma, including 7 ketones, 5 alcohols, 1 aldehyde, 5 acids, 4 esters, 5 hydrocarbons, 1 phenolic compound and 1 sulfocompound. This study reveals the sensory trait-related chemical changes in the yellowing process of tea, which provides a theoretical basis for the optimization of the yellowing process and quality control of yellow tea.

Characteristic Aroma Compound in Cinnamon Bark Extract Using Soybean Oil and/or Water

The effects of soybean oil (20%, v/w) and extraction time (30, 60, or 90 min) on volatile compounds in cinnamon bark extract were investigated. The relative content and odor activity values (OAVs) of volatile compounds were measured by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS). The results showed that a total of 26 and 27 volatile compounds were detected in the water extract and the aqueous phase of the water/oil extraction, respectively. Hexanal, nonanal, cinnamaldehyde, D-limonene, 1-octen-3-ol, linalool, and anethole were the major aroma-active compounds, accounting for 85% of the total substance content. Cinnamaldehyde had the highest contribution rate to the aroma of the water extract (26%), whereas anethole has the highest contribution rate to the aroma of the oil/water extract (30%). Whether or not the extraction medium contained soybean oil, the relative content of aroma-active compounds in the aqueous phase decreased with increased extraction time, and the relative content of these compounds in the aqueous phase further decreased when soybean oil was present. This should be due to the high hydrophobicity of these compounds, which were prone to dissolving in the oil layer during the extraction process, resulting in a decrease in the relative content of aroma-active compounds in the aqueous phase.

Evolution Analysis of Free Fatty Acids and Aroma-Active Compounds during Tallow Oxidation

To explore the role of fatty acids as flavor precursors in the flavor of oxidized tallow, the volatile flavor compounds and free fatty acid (FFAs) in the four oxidization stages of tallow were analyzed via gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometry (MS), the aroma characteristics of them were analyzed by GC-olfactory (GC-O) method combined with sensory analysis and partial least-squares regression (PLSR) analysis. 12 common FFAs and 35 key aroma-active compounds were obtained. Combined with the results of odor activity value (OAV) and FD factor, benzaldehyde was found to be an important component in unoxidized tallow. (E,E)-2,4-Heptadienal, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, (E)-2-nonenal, octanal, hexanoic acid, hexanal and (E)-2-heptenal were the key compounds involved in the tallow flavor oxidation. The changes in FFAs and volatile flavor compounds during oxidation and the metabolic evolution of key aroma-active compounds are systematically summarized in this study. The paper also provides considerable guidance in oxidation control and meat flavor product development.

Analysis of the Ability to Produce Pleasant Aromas on Sour Whey and Buttermilk By-Products by Mold Galactomyces geotrichum: Identification of Key Odorants

Currently, there is a growing demand for flavorings, especially of natural origin. It is worth paying attention to the biotechnological processes of flavor production, characterized by simplicity, high efficiency and relatively low cost. In this study, we analyzed the ability of the Galac tomyces geotrichum mold to transform by-products of the dairy industry: sour whey and buttermilk to complex flavour mixtures with pleasant, honey-rose aroma. Furthermore, the aroma complexity of the fermentation product has been carefully identified applying a sensomic approach involving the use of gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and stable isotope dilution assay (SIDA) to identify and quantify aroma compounds. Based on the calculation of odor activity value (OAV), 13 key aroma compounds were present in both tested variants. The highest OAVs were found for phenylacetaldehyde (honey-like) in the buttermilk variant (912) and 2-phenylethanol (rose-like) in the sour whey variant (524). High values of this indicator were also recorded for phenylacetaldehyde (319) and 3-methyl-1-butanol with a fruity aroma (149) in the sour whey culture. The other compounds identified are 3-methylbutanal (malty), 2,3-butanedione (cheesy), isovaleric acid (cheesy), 3-(methylthio)-propanal (boiled potato), butanoic acid (vinegar), (E)-2-nonenal (fatty), ethyl furaneol (burnt sugar), dimethyl trisulfide (cabbage), and acetic acid (vinegar).

Production and characterization of yeast extracts produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomyces boulardii and Kluyveromyces marxianus

In recent years, prejudice in society against monosodium glutamate (MSG) has directed food manufacturers to alternative sources. Yeast extracts are considered as "natural" due to the production process and stand out due to their nutritional properties as well as giving a flavor similar to MSG. In this study, chemical, functional and flavor properties of yeast extract powders produced from Saccharomyces cerevisiae TGM10, Saccharomyces boulardii S11 and Kluyveromyces marxianus TGM66 were evaluated. Results revealed that the most protein-rich sample was S. cerevisiae TGM10 extract (69.17%), followed by S. boulardii S11 (66.16%) and K. marxianus TGM66 (62.42%) extracts, respectively and S. cerevisiae TGM10 extract was also the richest yeast extract for essential amino acids. Additionally, flavor-enhancing amino acids such as glutamic acid, aspartic acid, alanine and glycine were dominant in S. cerevisiae TGM10 extract (47.41 g/100 g protein). Sensorial evaluation of yeast extracts demonstrated that salty taste, umami taste and meaty flavor scores of yeast extracts were lower than MSG whereas for fruity flavor, yeast extracts had the highest scores. These findings revealed the potential of three yeast strains to produce yeast extracts in order to increase the nutritional value and flavor of foods.

Elucidation of Endogenous Aroma Compounds in Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) Using a Molecular Sensory Approach

Glycosidically bound volatiles (GBVs) are flavorless compounds in fruits and may undergo hydrolysis during fruit maturation, storage, and processing, releasing free aglycones that are odor active. However, the contribution of glycosidic aglycones to the sensory attributes of fruits remains unclear. Herein, the key odor-active aglycones in tamarillo fruits were elucidated through the molecular sensory approach. We extracted GBVs from three cultivars of tamarillo fruits using solid-phase extraction and subsequently prepared aglycone isolates by enzymatic hydrolysis of GBVs. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry (GC-MS-O) coupled with odor activity value (OAV) calculation, comparative aroma extract dilution analysis (cAEDA), and omission tests were used to identify key aromatic aglycones. A total of 42 odorants were determined by GC-MS-O analysis. Among them, trans-2,cis-6-nonadienal, 2,5-dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanone (DMHF), linalool, 4-vinylguaiacol, geraniol, and α-terpineol showed high OAVs. The cultivar Amber had more aglycones with flavor dilution (FD) factors >16 than the Mulligan cultivar (27 vs 21, respectively), and the Laird's Large fruit showed the highest FD of 1024 for glycosidic DMHF. Omission tests indicated 14 aglycones as essential odorants related to GBVs in tamarillo fruits. Moreover, the enzymatic liberation of aglycones affected the sensory attributes of the tamarillo juice, resulting in an intensified odor profile with noticeable fruity and sweet notes. This study gives insights into the role of endogenous aroma during tamarillo-flavor perception, which lays the groundwork for developing tamarillo-based products with improved sensory properties.

Improving the taste profile of reduced-salt dry sausage by inoculating different lactic acid bacteria

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) including Lactobacillus curvatus, Lactobacillus sakei, Weissella hellenica, and Lactobacillus plantarum on the taste profiles of reduced-salt dry sausage. The results showed that the inoculation of LAB increased the moisture content and water activity and decreased the pH values of the sausages. Higher contents of total free amino acids (FAAs) were observed in the inoculated sausages (P < 0.05), especially for the sausages inoculated with L. curvatus, W. hellenica, and L. plantarum. The sausage inoculated with W. hellenica also had higher contents of organic acids than the other sausages (P < 0.05). In addition, partial least squares regression analysis demonstrated that the taste properties characterized by electronic tongue were consistent with the sensory evaluation results, and FAAs and organic acids contributed to the taste properties of the reduced-salt dry sausage. These results highlight the potential of W. hellenica and L. plantarum for the production of reduced-salt dry sausage with improved taste profiles.

Formation of beef-like odorants from glutathione-enriched yeast extract via Maillard reaction

The application of yeast extract (YE) in foods has widely evolved in recent decades. Generally, YE is added to foods because of its characteristic meaty and savory flavor notes. The composition of YE has made it an important ingredient for the production of meat-like flavors. This study focuses on the simulation of beef-like odorants from yeast extract through the Maillard reaction. Additionally, an optimization process was conducted via the central composite design (CCD) to optimize the Maillard reaction conditions. Glutathione-enriched yeast extract (GSH-YE) was utilized as the precursor with the partial addition of cysteine and ribose to form beef-like aroma compounds. The key odorants generated through the Maillard reaction were characterized via HS-SPME-GCMS and the contents of the Maillard precursors were analyzed via HPLC. The optimized conditions produced numerous pyrazines, furans, thiazoles, and sulfur- and nitrogen-containing compounds responsible for mimicking beef-like aromas. 2,5-Dimethyl-furan, 2,5-dimethyl-pyrazine, thiazole, 2-methyl-3-furanthiol, dimethyl trisulfide, 3,5-diethyl-2-methyl-pyrazine, 3,3'-dithiobis[2-methyl-furan] and 2-methyl-3-(methylthio) furan were the predominant odorants generated through the Maillard reaction. Moreover, the individual effect of initial pH and thermal temperature showed dramatic changes in the overall volatile profile. The content of cysteine and other amino acids decreased rapidly at higher thermal temperatures. The amount of larger peptides (1500-5000 Da) decreased at a thermal temperature of 160 °C, while the contents of smaller peptides (<500) increased. Thus, the sensory and instrumental data validate the potential application of GSH-YE in generating beef-like odorants, and furthermore, these outcomes can aid future pragmatic studies for further insight into beef flavor chemistry.

Free and Glycosidic Volatiles in Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum Cav. syn. Cyphomandra betacea Sendt.) Juices Prepared from Three Cultivars Grown in New Zealand

This study investigated the free and glycosidic-bound volatiles in the juice samples of three tamarillo cultivars (i.e. Amber, Mulligan, and Laird's Large) that are widely grown in New Zealand. Juice samples were prepared from fruits at different ripening stages (green, middle, and ripe). Headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was applied to analyze the free volatiles in the samples. A total of 20 free volatiles were detected. Among the samples, the ripe Mulligan juice gave the highest contents of free terpenoids (424 μg/L) and esters (691 μg/L). The glycosidic-bound volatiles were prepared by solid-phase extraction. The matrix effect was evaluated based on the recovery rate of analytes containing multiple aglycone classes. From the results, phenyl β-d-glucopyranoside was selected to compensate the matrix effect caused by insufficient acquisition of glycosidic volatiles during analyte preparation. In all the ripe-fruit juice samples, the aglycones 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furanone and trans-2, cis-6-nonadienal were found to give high odor activity values. According to multivariate statistical analysis, 11 free volatiles and 22 glycosidic volatiles could be potentially applied as volatile makers to distinguish the juice samples. This study has provided a comprehensive understanding of the flavor chemistry of tamarillo juices, with a focus on the potential role of glycosidic aglycones as aroma contributors to tamarillo products.

Absolute Quantitative Volatile Measurement from Fresh Tea Leaves and the Derived Teas Revealed Contributions of Postharvest Synthesis of Endogenous Volatiles for the Aroma Quality of Made Teas

Characteristic aroma is a well-appreciated feature contributing to tea quality. Although extensive studies have been made to investigate aroma biosynthesis and gene expressions during tea making processes, it remains unclear whether the endogenous volatile biosynthesis during postharvest tea processing contributes to the aroma quality of made tea. To critically evaluate this question, we used the same batch of fresh tea leaves and produced three different types of tea with different degrees of fermentation (green tea, oolong tea, and black tea). Total volatiles were extracted by solvent-assisted-flavor evaporation, then quantified by gas chromatography-flame ionization detector combined with response factor correction for quantitative measurement. Compared with fresh tea leaves, the volatile profiles of the made teas were dramatically altered, with significant loss for the majority of endogenous volatiles and simultaneous gain for non-endogenous volatiles. By calculation of odor-activity values, the potential volatiles contributing to the aroma characteristics of each tea type were identified. Our data suggest that postharvest synthesis of endogenous volatiles did not contribute to the aroma quality of made tea.

Characteristic Volatile Fingerprints and Odor Activity Values in Different Citrus-Tea by HS-GC-IMS and HS-SPME-GC-MS

Citrus tea is an emerging tea drink produced from tea and the pericarp of citrus, which consumers have increasingly favored due to its potential health effects and unique flavor. This study aimed to simultaneously combine the characteristic volatile fingerprints with the odor activity values (OAVs) of different citrus teas for the first time by headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) and headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). Results showed that the establishment of a citrus tea flavor fingerprint based on HS-GC-IMS data can provide an effective means for the rapid identification and traceability of different citrus varieties. Moreover, 68 volatile compounds (OAV > 1) were identified by HS-SPME-GC-MS, which reflected the contribution of aroma compounds to the characteristic flavor of samples. Amongst them, the contribution of linalool with sweet flower fragrance was the highest. Odorants such as decanal, β-lonone, β-ionone, β-myrcene and D-limonene also contributed significantly to all samples. According to principal component analysis, the samples from different citrus teas were significantly separated. Visualization analysis based on Pearson correlation coefficients suggested that the correlation between key compounds was clarified. A comprehensive evaluation of the aroma of citrus tea will guide citrus tea flavor quality control and mass production.

Evaluation of the Perceptual Interactions Between Higher Alcohols and Off-Odor Acids in Laimao Baijiu by σ-τ Plot and Partition Coefficient

The volatile compounds in three Laimao baijius ("Chuanchenglan, CCL", "Hongyu, HY", and "Zhencang, ZC") were comprehensively analyzed by gas chromatography-olfactometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated that 44, 42, and 42 compounds with flavor dilution factors ≥ 16 and odor activity values ≥ 1 were, respectively, identified as important odorants. Additionally, the perceptual interactions of 6 higher alcohols and 3 off-odor acids were evaluated by σ-τ plot, and the partition coefficient was calculated to explain the release of odorants in the matrix. The interactions indicated that adding a high concentration of 1-propanol or 2-phenylethanol to the matrix could mask the sweaty note of 3-methylbutyric acid. The partition coefficients explained that high concentrations of 1-propanol and 2-phenylethanol were able to significantly inhibit the release of 3-methylbutyric acid when the phase ratio was relatively large, and the effect of 1-propanol on it was higher than that of 2-phenylethanol.

Characterization of key odor-active compounds in commercial high-salt liquid-state soy sauce by switchable GC/GC × GC-olfactometry-MS and sensory evaluation

Activity of odor compounds of soy sauces has not been fully determined so far. Herein, a new switchable GC/GC × GC-olfactometry-mass spectrometry system for simultaneous GC × GC-MS analysis and sniffing of each odor-active substance through a single injection was used for the aroma extract dilution analysis of five regular high-salt liquid-state soy sauces (HLS). Methional, maltol, guaiacol, 4-ethylguaiacol, 2-acetylpyrrole, 2-acetylfuran, 2-phenylethanol, and 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furanone showed high flavor dilution (FD) factors. The FD factors of all odor-active compounds in different odor attributes were summed up (score) to evaluate the odor characteristics of the samples. Cooked potato-like odor was the most important characteristic. The difference in the odor characteristics were mainly reflected in the balance of caramel-like/sweet, roasted/roasted nut-like, spicy/burnt, and unpleasant odor intensity; the fruity odor intensity was the weakest. This study will provide a better understanding of the odor characteristics and key odor-active compounds in Chinese regular commercial HLS.

Characterization of the Key Aroma Compounds in Dog Foods by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, Acceptance Test, and Preference Test

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) coupled with the acceptance test, partial least-squares regression (PLSR) analysis, validation experiment, and preference test was used to identify the key aroma compounds in dog foods (DFs). Six DFs were evaluated by spraying six palatability enhancers onto a basal DF. The differently flavored palatability enhancers were prepared by the Maillard reaction using different protein sources and reaction conditions. The intake ratios of the six DFs were tested by six adult beagle dogs and were classified into high, medium, and low levels. A total of 55 volatile compounds were identified using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) GC-MS. Correlation analysis of the volatile compounds associated with intake ratios using partial least-squares regression (PLSR) found nine significantly positive and three significantly negative compounds that made a significant contribution to the palatability of DFs. Validation tests undertaken by adding three significantly positive compounds, one significantly negative compound, and one nonsignificant compound into the odorless matrix successfully verified the accuracy prediction of the PLSR model. The nine significantly positive compounds were heptanal, nonanal, octanal, (E)-2-hexenal, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, 2-pentylfuran, 4-methyl-5-thiazoleethanol, 2-furfurylthiol, and (E)-2-decenal. The contributions of nine key aroma compounds were further analyzed by the preference test. (E)-2-decenal, 2-furfurylthiol, and 4-methyl-5-thiazoleethanol showed higher first choice, consumption ratio, and unit contribution rate and were vital to the overall preferred aroma of DFs.

Characterization of Key Aroma Compounds in Raw and Roasted Peas (Pisum sativum L.) by Application of Instrumental and Sensory Techniques

Gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O) coupled with GC-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and aroma recombination-omission experiments led to the identification of the key aroma compounds responsible for the different flavors of raw and roasted peas. The results demonstrated that a total of 30 odorants were identified in raw and roasted peas. Nine and twenty compounds were identified as important odorants in raw and roasted peas with odor activity values (OAVs) greater than 1, respectively. Aroma recombination-omission experiments demonstrated that six aroma compounds significantly contributed to the characteristic aroma of peas (p < 0.05). Among these, 3-methylbutanoic acid (OAV = 382) and hexanal (OAV = 280) significantly contributed to the aroma of peas. Fifteen aroma compounds significantly contributed to the characteristic aroma of roasted peas (p < 0.05). Among these, pyrazines and pyranones showed important contribution to the aroma of roasted peas. Roasting increased the variety of key aroma compounds significantly and contributed a nutty flavor to peas. The comprehensive aroma characterization of peas and determination of the effect of roasting on key aroma compound alteration will be helpful for new pea products' flavor quality control.