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BACKGROUND: Quality properties of 14 saffron samples from Iran, Spain, and Türkiye were compared. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between anthocyanins, volatile compounds, fatty acids, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of saffron samples (P < 0.05). Besides, significant differences in color parameters were observed. Moreover, a total of 13 volatile compounds were identified in the saffron samples using. headspace–solid‐phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, safranal and α‐isophorone being the two predominant aroma compounds. Regarding fatty acids, significant differences were seen in the fatty acid profiles of saffron samples (P < 0.05), while linoleic acid was the most concentrated fatty acid. In terms of sensory properties, different concentrations of safranal, α‐isophorone and 4‐ketoisophorone may lead to significant differences in the odor and taste attributes of saffron samples (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Changes in corm origin along with climate and agricultural conditions may affect the quality characteristics of saffron cultivated in different geographical areas to a significant degree. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Acrylamide in foods has been widely studied because of its possible carcinogenicity. Most of the foods investigated were prepared using low moisture and high temperature conditions. Non-centrifugal sugars (NCSs), which have been promoted as 'non-chemical' natural sweeteners, contain precursors of acrylamide and their production processes involved prolonged heating. The acrylamide content in 32 commercial NCSs from coconut, cane and palmyra palm purchased in Asian countries was investigated. Additionally, syrups (80 oBrix) produced from coconut and palmyra raw saps and cane juice were prepared by evaporation with prolonged heating (2.5 h to reach 100 °C, 1 h to increase to 110 °C, held at 110 °C for 30 min). The compositions and contents of sugars, amino acids and minerals, as well as the physical characteristics of the raw saps, juice and syrups, were determined. RESULTS: The acrylamide content of these 32 products ranged from < 15 to 4011 µg kg-1. The raw saps and juice were mildly acidic (pH 5.14--5.66) and similar values were observed for their syrups (4.73-5.73). The contents of sucrose, fructose and glucose in the saps and juice from these plants were similar, whereas their compositions varied with respect to amino acids. The variation of the ornithine content was significant, demonstrating a striking influence on the extent of acrylamide formation (867-1564 µg kg-1) in the syrups prepared from these materials. CONCLUSION: The present study emphasizes the importance of a careful monitoring and control of the critical steps invloved in the manufacturing process of NCSs (particularly the evaporation phase), aiming to protect the health and safety of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Water scarcity is currently affecting many areas of the world, reaching worrying levels in drought areas such as southern Spain. To cope with this issue, researchers in the agricultural sector have implemented deficit irrigation strategies intended to reduce water consumption by increasing fruit quality. Almond is among the most popular tree nuts worldwide and also the most nut cultivated in Spain. Almond consumption, together with other nuts, has been widely associated with improvements in cardiovascular health, metabolic syndrome and diabetes owing to their bioactive compounds such as polyphenols. Water deficit strategies generate hydroSOStainable almonds, raised under water stress conditions, with high content of bioactive compounds. The aim of this work was to study the relationship between water stress, color and polyphenols in hydroSOStainable almonds. For this, instrumental color, total phenolic content and phenolic compounds were measured and correlated using Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: The results showed a strong relationship between water stress, color and polyphenols of almonds, showing that increasing water stress in plants up to ~100 MPa × day values of stress integral increase the polyphenols in almonds, leading to a reddish color. CONCLUSION: Finally, this research demonstrated that implementing water‐saving strategies help to improve the phenolic content and color of hydroSOStainable almonds and also that isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside, isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐glucoside and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucoside could be important markers of hydroSOStainable almonds (cv. Vairo). Besides, hydroSOStainable almonds could be an important source of phenols, providing 25% of the estimated total polyphenolic daily intake. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are the most extended current chronic diseases and also Alzheimer pathology which is a progressive degenerative neurological disorder. Therefore, finding effective enzyme inhibitors responsible for the development of these diseases are essential. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of fruit purée (Cydonia oblonga, Ziziphus jujube and Malus domestica) and pomegranate juice cultivar ('Mollar de Elche' and 'Wonderful') of dried pomegranate sheets (DS) on the inhibition of enzymes associated with metabolic (α‐amylase, α‐glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase activity), and neurological disorder (acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activity). Quality properties (colour coordinates, texture properties and sensory characteristics) of DS were also studied. In addition, it was researched the effect of storage conditions (4 months at 4 and 20 °C) on phenolic content. RESULTS: DS from jujube had the highest antioxidant capacity and were characterized by the highest storage stability with respect to phenolic compounds. The α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50, in mg mL−1) inhibition of DS ranged from 107 to 216 and from 55.2 to values indicating no effect, respectively. The inhibition toward pancreatic lipase (IC50 < 5 mg mL−1), acetylcholinesterase (ranged 9.15–22.2%) and butyrylcholinesterase (ranged 20.6–48.6%) was increased with the presence of total flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids content (identifying mainly in DS from quinces). It is noteworthy that none of the samples presented off‐flavour notes, supporting the high quality of the products. CONCLUSION: DS can be an innovative supplement to a diet as a snack used in the prevention of neurological changes and disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Water scarcity is a worldwide problem that leads to environmental and economic issues. Agriculture is one of the main consumers of water for irrigation and fertilization and almond is the major tree nut crop in the Mediterranean area. Furthermore, there is a continuous growing demand for healthy, vegan and sustainable products. Consequently, the present study aimed to chemically characterize almond milk powder enriched with probiotics manufactured from hydroSOStainable almonds (i.e. generated under water stress conditions). Almond milk powder enriched with probiotic bacteria was produced with almonds grown under optimal irrigation conditions (100% of the crop evapotranspiration) and was chemically compared to the samples made from hydroSOStainable almonds. Antioxidant activity, total phenolic content (TPC), minerals, organic acids and sugars, fatty acids, and descriptive sensory analysis were evaluated. RESULTS: The results showed that almond milk powder produced from hydroSOStainable almonds had a higher content of TPC, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), PUFAs/saturated fatty acids (SFAs) ratio and PUFAs/monounsaturated fatty acids ratio, as well as almond and nutty flavors. Moderate and sustained deficit irrigation leads to powders with a higher content of PUFAs and PUFAs/SFAs ratio, which are parameters of utmost importance for health. CONCLUSION: Using these strategies, between 66% and 76% of the irrigation water can be saved, producing hydroSOStainable almond milk powder higher in TPC and PUFAs, as well as positive sensory attributes, compared to that from fully irrigated almonds. These findings may have a positive impact in both agriculture and food industry, allowing water savings and high quality and sustainable food products to be obtained. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents, for the first time, full volatile profiles of four aerial parts of caper plants (Capparis spinosa L.) from southeastern Spain. Volatile compounds in caper leaves and stems (together), flowers, flower buds, and fruits from two cultivars were identified and quantified using headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography with a mass spectrometry detector (GC-MS). Forty-three volatile compounds were identified in the caper shoots, 32 in caper flowers, with only 18, 10, and 6 compounds being found in flower buds, leaves, and fruits, respectively. The predominant compound in all studied materials was methyl isothiocyanate, with nerolidol, trans-2-hexenal, and nonanal playing key roles in flowers, leaves, and flowers buds, respectively. The two studied cultivars had the same volatile compounds but at very different concentrations, although the two studied cultivars are cultivated under the same climatic and agronomic conditions. Additionally, the predominant compounds, especially methyl isothiocyanate (6882 mg·kg−1 fw in flower buds of ORI 3 cultivar), can be separated and concentrated for future applications in food technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The combination of the nutritional profile of almond milk with the benefits of probiotic bacteria is an interesting development to meet the demand for sustainable and health‐promoting food. Almond milk inoculated with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum (ATCC8014) was spray dried and the almond, its milk, and powders were characterized physicochemically. Samples were characterized in terms of bacterial survival before and after atomization. Bacterial viability and total fatty acid changes were studied during 8 months' storage at 4 and 22 °C. RESULTS: Results showed adequate physicochemical properties and an optimal bacterial survival rate, maintaining almost the same values before and after the spray‐drying operation. A decrease was observed in the cell viability for samples stored at 4 °C. However, the cell count was maintained above the minimum level suggested (107 living cells) to allow potential probiotic functionality for 8 months. On the other hand, the count cell of powders stored at 22 °C was below the minimum level required after 6 months. The fatty acids profile was not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by storage time and temperature. CONCLUSION: A new almond‐based‐product with probiotics was developed to meet consumer demands. Almond nutrients were recovered from almond milk powder and were found to be a good source of K and high in Mg and in monounsaturated fat. The viability of bacteria was assured during 8 months of storage at 4 °C and up to 6 months for samples stored at 22 °C. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic men are at a higher risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). A tropical plant, clove (Syn. Eugenia caryophyllata, Caryophyllus aromaticus L., Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry) from the Myrtaceae family has displayed aphrodisiac activity. The present research aimed to investigate the impacts of clove essential oil (CEO) and the ingredient of CEO, eugenol (E) on ED in diabetic rats. We divided Sprague‐Dawley rats into control and diabetic groups. Erectile function was evaluated before and after CEO and E intracavernosal injection. CEO‐ and E‐induced relaxation responses were investigated in isolated corpus cavernosum (CC) using various inhibitors. The intracavernous administration of CEO and E restored erectile responses in diabetic rats. CEO and E induced remarkable relaxation in all groups. CEO‐ and E‐induced relaxation responses were partially inhibited after pre‐contraction with KCl. Tetraethylammonium and glibenclamide inhibited the relaxation response to CEO. Glibenclamide inhibited maximum relaxation to E. The inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), soluble guanylyl cyclase and nifedipine did not change CEO‐ and E‐induced relaxation responses. The current results suggest that CEO and the major compound of the essential oil, E improved diabetes‐induced ED in rats, and CEO caused CC relaxation via K+ channels independently NO signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) treatments were applied to "Arbequina" olive orchards during pit hardening. Oil quality was determined by measuring analytical parameters for olive oil grading, antioxidant activity, total phenol content, fatty acid profile, volatile compounds profile, and sensory analysis. Oils from RDI were classified as "extra virgin olive oil" and their quality was improved due to their higher antioxidant potential (ABTS+ [increased ~75%] and DPPH˙ [increased ~25%] assays) and phenols (increased ~53%) than control. Concentration of total volatile compounds decreased (~27%) but RDI olive oils showed a more balanced profile (alcohols, aldehydes, and esters). Monounsaturated fatty acid content increased (~5%) and atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes decreased (~8.5%) in RDI olive oil. Regarding sensory analysis, RDI provided more balanced oils with higher fruit aroma than control. Other benefits of RDI olive oil, when compared with oil from full irrigated orchards are reduced use of water and improved functional and sensory quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This was the first study investigating the polyphenol content, antioxidant potential, and polyphenol bioaccessibility after in vitro digestion of table olives grown using regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) treatments to save irrigation water. Two experiments were carried out: (i) experiment A, where RDI was applied during the pit hardening stage and (ii) experiment B, where RDI was applied during the rehydration stage. Only slight differences among irrigation treatments were observed in two antioxidant assays (ABTS+• and DPPH•) and on TPC for the soluble fraction after in vitro digestion. An average of 1 g gallic acid equivalents kg−1 of table olives were found after digestion. Approximately, 12% of the polyphenols of table olives were bioaccessible for human absorption. Saving water techniques influence neither the final polyphenol content and antioxidant potential of table olives nor the bioaccessibility of polyphenols. The consumption of 40 g of table olives will provide 40 mg of bioaccessible polyphenols able to provide associated health benefits (∼7% of the daily polyphenols intake recommendation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Modern agriculture allows farmers to choose among different cultivars of the same fruit to fulfill their agronomic needs and consumers' demands; however, there are only a few studies that describe and compare key functional and sensory properties of different pistachio cultivars. The main objective of this study was to compare eight pistachio cultivars by analyzing key functional properties (phenolic compounds, polymeric procyanidins, antioxidant activity, and inhibition of α‐amylase and β‐glucosidase), aromatic compounds with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and by examining their sensory properties with a trained panel. RESULTS: A combination of LC‐PDA‐MS‐QTof (liquid chromatography photodiode array quadrupole time‐off flight mass spectrometry) and electrospray ionization was used to determine two phenolic acids, nine flavonols, one anthocyanin, and three flavan‐3‐ols in pistachio cultivars, with a total concentration ranging from 500 to 6065 mg 100 g−1 dry weight (dw). The total polymeric procyanidins concentrations oscillated between 348 and 5919 mg 100 g−1 dw, (−)‐epicatechin being the major monomer contributor. Pinene was the most abundant volatile compound (∼200 mg kg−1 dw), and, in the sensory analysis of samples, 23 sensory attributes were found to differ significantly among the cultivars. CONCLUSION: The cultivar 'Larnaka' stood out as having the best functional profile (high polyphenolic content, high antioxidant activity, and high values of α‐amylase and β‐glucosidase inhibition), and the cultivars 'Kastel' and 'Kerman' showed the most attractive sensory properties, mainly the most intense flavor. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No scientific information exists on quality attributes of Fondillón, a special naturally sweet wine produced from overripe Monastrell grapes and one of the only six wines that can use its own name according to European Union Regulations. The aim of this study was to analyze the composition (physicochemical and volatile profile) and sensory quality of this special wine. A specific lexicon to describe wines under the Alicante PDO was developed, using 28 attributes (11 flavor notes, 3 visual, 2 global, and 12 defects). Forty volatile compounds were isolated, and esters were the main chemical family of volatile compounds of Fondillón (∼70%), followed by alcohols (∼20%). Furthermore, two volatile compounds (TDN and vitispirane) were positively correlated with the age of the Fondillón samples, under the specific working conditions used in this study. According to a sensory study, this wine was appreciated by Spanish consumers as having intense fruity notes, high alcohol content, and some bitter and balsamic notes; however, further research is needed to identify the proper profile of Fondillón consumers and their buying and acceptance drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Three treatments of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) were assayed on olive trees for table olive production. RDI provides hydroSOStainable crops. The effect of RDI treatments on the quality of raw and table olives was determined based on their: weight, pit weight, fruit/pit ratio, size, texture, colour, mineral content, antioxidant activity, total phenol content and organic acid and sugar profile. Results: HydroSOStainable olives showed the most attractive shape and colour: highest fruit weight, roundest fruit, hardest texture and a lightest and greenest colour than control olives. Minerals, antioxidants, phenols and organic acids and sugars of hydroSOStainable olives were similar to control olives. After processing to table olives, calcium, potassium, antioxidants and phenols contents decreased, whereas sugars and organic acids profiles changed in both types of olives. Conclusions: HydroSOStainable table olives offer environmental and quality advantages over control olives given the reduced use of fresh water and favourable morphological traits, which are more attractive for consumers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This report studied the response of pomegranate fruit under full irrigation (FI) and water stress conditions to bagging with externally glossy, single‐layer, cellulosic paper bags, open at the bottom, from the end of fruit thinning to harvest time. Results: Bagging decreased fruit size and the maturity index, and increased antioxidant activity in FI conditions. Moreover, fruit bagging substantially reduced the incidence of peel sunburn in both irrigation conditions. Conclusion: The delay in fruit growth and ripening as a result of pomegranate fruit bagging is outweighed by the very important commercial benefit in terms of the reduced incidence of peel sunburn and the increase in fruit antioxidant activity. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different drying methods on aroma and sensory profile of Boletus edulis (cepe). The drying methods tested were convective drying (CD), freeze-drying (FD), vacuum microwave drying (VMD), and a combination of convective predrying and vacuum microwave finish-drying (CPD-VMFD). Fresh and dried cepe volatiles, analyzed by SPME and GC-MS, showed the presence of 53 volatile compounds, most of them present in all dried samples but with quantitative variation. The major volatile compounds in fresh and dried cepe were 1-octen-3-ol (3405 µg 100 g−1·db), 3-octanone (429 µg 100 g−1·db), and hexanal (355 µg 100 g−1·db). The results showed that drying of cepe mushrooms caused major losses of aroma compounds; however, the highest content of volatile compounds and the highest intensity of most of the key positive sensory attributes were found in samples after (i) CD at 80°C (3763 µg 100 g−1·db), (ii) CD at 70°C (3478 µg 100 g−1·db), and (iii) CPD at 60°C and VMFD at 480/240 W (2897 µg 100 g−1·db). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The working hypothesis of the present study was that, by proper simultaneous control of irrigation (hydroSOStainable products) and crop load (thinning), it is possible to promote the accumulation of bioactive compounds and improve fruit appearance (size and weight). The effects of (i) irrigation status [T0, 120% ETc (estimated crop evapotranspiration); T1, 60% ETc during fruit growth and ripening] and (ii) crop load (A0, no thinning; A1, thinning) on yield and fruit quality were evaluated in two pomegranate cultivars (Wonderful, Wond and Mollar de Elche, ME). RESULTS: Thinning was effective in increasing the size and weight of fruits. Unfortunately, neither punicalagin, nor total polyphenolic content were positively affected by irrigation and thinning. T1A1 Wond fruits were characterized by high sugar content (glucose and fructose), together with high fruit size and weight. Furthermore, T1A1 ME fruits were characterized by high contents of alcohols and monoterpenoids (providing vegetal and citric flavor notes) and key sensory attributes (color, fruity and fresh pomegranate). CONCLUSION: The final recommendation was to use the treatment T1A1 [simultaneous combination of deficit irrigation during fruit growth and ripening (T1) and thinning (A1)], although the positive results were cultivar‐dependent. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is very little information available on the chemical composition and the quality attributes of the citrus species studied which are truly endangered in Spain. None of the fruits studied is available for commercial purposes, which is the main interest and novelty of this study. The aim of this work was to fully describe the morphology, volatile composition, and sensory profile of traditional citrus fruits: sour lime (SoLi), sweet lime (SwLi), and sweet lemon (SwLe), to have the information to convince farmers and growers to cultivate these fruits again. The predominant sugar was fructose while citric acid prevails in SoLi and SwLe. Regarding volatiles compounds, monoterpenes, monoterpenoids, and esters predominated in the juices, and these three families plus sesquiterpenes in the peels. The juice of SoLi presented the highest content of esters (14.8%), SwLi juice presented similar values of both monoterpenes and monoterpenoids (46.1 and 46.0%, resp.), and SwLe juice had the highest content of monoterpenes (72.2%). The results demonstrated the high potential of these citrus materials for the agrofood industry. Therefore, it will be possible to recover these vegetal materials at risk of disappearing for potential uses by the food industry and simultaneously help maintaining the biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Recent studies have demonstrated that consumption of Opuntia ficus‐indica Mill. has an important positive health benefit, mainly due to antioxidant properties, which justifies this research. This study examined antioxidant activity, organic acid and sugar profile, total phenolic, and physicochemical characteristics of six O. ficus‐indica cultivars growing in the Spanish Mediterranean. It should be noted that, in this study, both cladodes (young and adult) and fruits (peel and pulp) were analyzed. RESULTS: The antioxidant activity (2,2‐azinobis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl methods) was higher in fruit peel than in cladodes. The young cladodes presented an important antioxidant activity by the ferric‐reducing ability of plasma method as well as a higher total phenolic content (18.90 g gallic acid equivalent per kilogram). High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode‐array detector analysis revealed the absence of sucrose and the presence of glucose and fructose, which the values were higher in pulp fruits. HPLC with refractive index detector analysis showed that citric, malic, and succinic acids were the main organic acids in all cultivars, with a significant higher content in old cladodes. CONCLUSION: These investigations valorize O. ficus‐indica fruits in comparison with cladodes. In general, this plant can be considered as an ingredient for the production of health‐promoting food, highlighting mainly in the antioxidant activity and total polyphenols content found in young cladodes and peel fruits. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: One of the best preservation method for long‐term storage is drying. In this work, the influence of different drying methods on aroma and sensory profile of shiitake mushroom was evaluated. The drying methods tested were: convective drying (CD), freeze‐drying (FD), vacuum‐microwave drying (VMD), and a combination of convective pre‐drying and vacuum–microwave finish‐drying (CPD‐VMFD). RESULTS: The volatile composition of fresh and dried shiitake mushrooms was analysed by SPME, GC–MS and GC‐FID, and showed the presence of 71 volatile compounds, most of them present in all dried samples but with quantitative variation. The major volatile compounds in fresh shiitake were 1‐octen‐3‐ol (20.2%), 2‐octanone (20.7%), 1,2,4‐trithiolane (9.8%), and 1,2,3,5,6‐pentathiepane (8.2%). Drying of shiitake mushrooms caused significant losses of C8 compounds and cyclic sulfur compounds, such as 1,2,4‐trithiolane (V31) and 1,2,4,5‐tetrathiane (V57). Samples dried at CD 80 °C implied a relative short drying time (120 min), had the highest contents of total volatiles (1594 μg 100 g−1) and cyclic sulfur compounds (e.g. V57 126 μg 100 g−1), and the highest intensity of most of the key positive sensory attributes, such as inner colour (7.0), fresh shiitake flavour (6.7), and sponginess (6.2). CONCLUSION: The best dehydration methods, resulting in the highest total concentrations of volatile compounds and high intensity of key sensory attributes were FD (if vacuum and liquid nitrogen facilities are available) and CD at 80 °C (for companies with vacuum and liquid nitrogen facilities). © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND In this work, the influence of different drying methods on the aroma composition and sensory quality of chanterelle mushrooms ( Cantharellus cibarius Fr.) was evaluated. The drying methods tested were convective drying (CD), freeze drying (FD), vacuum microwave drying (VMD) and a combination of convective pre-drying and vacuum microwave finish drying (CPD-VMFD). RESULTS Analyses of fresh and dried chanterelle samples by HS-SPME and GC/MS and GC-FID showed the presence of 39 volatile compounds at different concentrations. The most abundant compounds in fresh chanterelle were 1-hexanol (33.4 μg per 100 g dry basis (db)), 1-octen-3-ol (80.2 μg per 100 g db) and 2-octen-1-ol (19.3 μg per 100 g db). The results showed that fresh and dried chanterelle contained very low levels of aroma compounds; however, the highest contents of volatile compounds were found in samples after (i) CD at 80 °C (129 μg per 100 g db), (ii) CPD-VMFD at 70 °C-480/240 W (136 μg per 100 g db) and (iii) CPD-VMFD at 80 °C-480/240 W (136 μg per 100 g db). CONCLUSION The best dehydration methods, which resulted in high contents of volatile compounds and appropriate sensory quality, according to descriptive sensory analysis and PCA tools, were CD at 70 and 80 °C. Besides, these methods led to spongy dried mushrooms with high intensities of fresh, mushroom ID, with proper color and without intense shrinkage. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Some studies have reported that different parts of the pomegranate fruit, especially the peel, may act as potential antimicrobial agents and thus might be proposed as a safe natural alternative to synthetic antimicrobial agents. The high tannin content, especially punicalagin, found in pomegranate extracts, has been reported as the main compound responsible for such antimicrobial activity. Because the pomegranate peel chemical composition may vary with the type of cultivar (sweet, sour-sweet and sour), pomegranates may also differ with respect to their antimicrobial capacity. RESULTS The extract from PTO8 pomegranate cultivar peel had the highest antimicrobial activity, as well as the highest punicalagins (α and β) and ellagic acid concentrations. In the results obtained from both antibacterial and antifungal activity studies, the sour-sweet pomegranate cultivar PTO8 showed the best antimicrobial activity, and the highest ellagic acid concentrations. CONCLUSION The results of the present study suggest that ellagic acid content has a significant influence on the antimicrobial activity of the pomegranate extracts investigated. The pomegranate peel of the PTO8 cultivar is a good source of antifungal and antibacterial compounds, and may represent an alternative to antimicrobial agents of synthetic origin. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The influence of three irrigation treatments ( T0, no stress; T1, soft stress; and, T2, moderate stress) on the key functional properties [fatty acids, sugar alcohols, organic acids, minerals, total polyphenols content ( TPC), and antioxidant activity ( AA)], sensory quality, and consumers' acceptance of table olives, cv. 'Manzanilla', was evaluated. RESULTS A soft water stress, T1, led to table olives with the highest oil and dry matter contents, with the highest intensities of key sensory attributes and slightly, although not significant, higher values of consumer satisfaction degree. Besides, RDI in general ( T1 and T2) slightly increased green colour, the content of linoleic acid, but decreased the content of phytic acid and some minerals. CONCLUSION The soft RDI conditions are a good option for the cultivation of olive trees because they are environmentally friendly and simultaneously maintain or even improve the functionality, sensory quality, and consumer acceptance of table olives. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Two independent field experiments were carried out to investigate the influence of (i) three irrigation treatments ( ID0 = 1585 m3 ha−1, considered as a control; ID1 = 1015 m3 ha−1; and ID2 = 2180 m3 ha−1) and (ii) three plant density treatments ( PD0 = 5.56 plants m−2, considered as a control; PD1 = 4.44 plants m−2; and PD2 = 7.41 plants m−2) on the production, volatile composition of essential oil, and sensory quality of dill. RESULTS The highest plant yield was obtained with intermediate conditions of both irrigation dose ( ID0) and plant density ( PD0). The main compounds of the essential oil were α-phellandrene, dill ether and β-phellandrene. The highest irrigation dose ( ID2) produced the highest concentrations of most of the main compounds: α-phellandrene (49.5 mg per 100 g), β-phellandrene (6.89 mg per 100 g) and limonene (2.49 mg per 100 g). A similar pattern was found for the highest plant density ( PD2): α-phellandrene (71.0 mg per 100 g), dill ether (16.7 mg per 100 g) and β-phellandrene (9.70 mg per 100 g). The use of descriptive sensory analysis helped in reaching a final decision, and the dill plants with the highest sensory quality were those of the ID2 and PD0 treatments. CONCLUSION The final recommendation is to use the irrigation dose ID2 and the plant density PD2 if the objective is to produce dill samples with the highest aromatic and sensory quality; however, if the only objective is to produce high amounts of dill, the best options are ID0 and PD0. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roasting enhances sensory quality of wild almonds ( Amygdalus scoparia). The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of microwaves (480 W for 3 or 4 min) in roasting of wild almonds in comparison with traditional Spanish (165 °C for 20 min) and Iranian (soaking in 20 % NaCl in water for 30 min, drying at 60 °C for 2 h and roasting at 135 °C for 20 min) hot-air processes. The influence of roasting wild almonds on moisture and oil contents, crispness, fatty acid profile, volatile compounds, and odour intensity was investigated. Roasting causes changes in appearance, texture and flavour, due to dehydration, browning, lipid oxidation, and diverse structural changes. The moisture content and hardness of the samples significantly decreased with all roasting methods. Roasting resulted in higher amounts of characteristics aroma compounds and only microwave roasting increased the oil content. The final recommendation is that microwave roasting at 480 W for 4 min led to roasted almonds of high physicochemical [dark and intense colour ( L*44.9, a*8.4, and b*19.6), the highest content of total volatile compounds (132 mg kg), 85.2 % of unsaturated fatty acids], and sensory (high intensity of 'roasted almond' aroma) quality. Microwaves can be used for roasting wild almond as a quick, safe, and economical method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Jujube fruit is eaten mostly fresh, but may be dried (Chinese dates and tea) or processed into confectionary recipes in bread, cakes, compotes, and candy. Given that the quality of jujube available on the market differs on account of various factors such as geographical environment, cultivar, processing conditions, and storage conditions, and that, for consumers, flavour and nutrition properties of jujube represent the major parameters in determining the quality of jujube, the main goal of this study were to determine the main physico-chemical properties of jujube fruits, sugars and organic acids profiles, protein, mineral constituents, volatile composition and sensory profile of jujube fruits. This would allow breeders to select cultivars with higher levels of nutrients and also enable increasing dietary intake by consumers. RESULTS Investigations showed that jujube fruit weight ranged from 4.8 to 29.3 g fruit−1. Four sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose and sorbitol) and four organic acids (citric, malic, ascorbic and succinic acids) were identified and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography in jujube fruits. Potassium, calcium and magnesium were the major mineral constituents in jujube fruits. Fifteen volatiles compounds were found in the aroma profile of jujube fruits (nine were aldehydes, three terpenes, one ester, one ketone and one linear hydrocarbon). CONCLUSION The results showed that Spanish jujube cultivars studied are a good source of vitamin C, and they have a low content of Na. The jujube cultivar with the most appreciated quality by consumers was GAL; the GAL fruits were sweet, crunchy, and had high intensities of jujube ID and apple flavour a long after-taste. Therefore, jujube grown in Spain has a great potential to be exploited for functional foods. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive seed hardness and wood perception will drastically limit consumer's acceptance for pomegranate. To classify pomegranate cultivars, easy-to-measure instrumental texture parameters and consumer satisfaction degree were assayed. Twenty pomegranate cultivars (sweet, sour-sweet and sour tastes) with a wide range of seed hardness were used. The instrumental hardness ranged from 9.60 to 59.5 N/mm, whereas the wood index ranged from 4.77 to 15.3%. Classifications based on hardness and wood perception agreed quite well. Cultivars MA3, ME14, MO5, PTO10 or VA1 were classified as appropriate for fresh consumption whereas cultivars BO1, HZ and WOND were classified as appropriate for industrialization. Cultivars ME12, MEC, MO2 and VA11 were finally recommended for fresh consumption not only due to low seed hardness and intermediate wood perception but also due to sweet taste; however, cultivars BA1 and SM were recommended for industrialization because of its sour taste, which is normally not acceptable to consumers. Finally, the cultivar PTO5 can be used for both purposes, as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gaz is a typical Iranian confectionary product prepared from almond and/or pistachio, gaz-angebin, sugar, glucose syrup, rosewater and egg white. The physicochemical properties of seven gaz samples were studied. Volatile compounds were extracted by solid-phase microextraction and investigated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Texture and organoleptic characteristics were determined by a texture analyzer and a trained panel, respectively. Twentyeight compounds were detected, including ketones, alcohols, furans, linear hydrocarbons, terpenes, aldehydes, aromatics hydrocarbons and pyrroles. Carvone was the predominant volatile compound. The type and amount of nuts determined the intensity of key flavor attributes; however, these two factors only influenced the hardness of samples but no other texture attributes. The sensory texture profile of gaz could be successfully predicted by easy-toconduct instrumental tests, mainly texture profile analysis and cutting test. However, further research is needed in order to clearly prove whether the instrumental evaluation of the volatile compounds could be used to replace sensory analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND In this work, the influence of two regulated deficit irrigation ( RDI) treatments and three different rootstocks on the quality of pistachios was evaluated by analyzing different parameters: morphological analysis, physicochemical analysis and sensory analysis. RESULTS The results obtained in terms of the choice of rootstock revealed that Pistacia atlantica had increased production yields, nut weight, mineral content, higher intensities of characteristic sensory attributes and a higher degree of consumer satisfaction, than the other rootstocks studied. Moreover, the results established that the application of RDI on pistachio cultivation had no significant influence on production yield, weight, size, colour, water activity or mineral composition. Furthermore, T1 treatment (stem water potential < −1.3 MPa) resulted in higher intensities of characteristic sensory attributes and a greater level of satisfaction among international consumers. CONCLUSION These results confirm that the application of deficit irrigation ( T1) contributes to an increase in overall product quality. Furthermore, Pistacia atlantica rootstock provided better yield and quality than the other rootstocks studied. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to measure the sensory acceptability and obtain check-all-that-apply (CATA) responses for fruit-flavored powdered juices, with three different consumer segments: children and women who could be considered target populations, and a convenience sample of food-science-related consumers (FSRC). The study was conducted with a total of 550 consumers in four cities: Alicante (Spain), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Manhattan (U.S.A.) and 9 de Julio (Argentina). The products were reconstituted powdered juices with the following flavors: apple, cherry, grape, grapefruit, orange and pear. Overall, FSRC consumers had the lowest acceptability scores for these products. Regarding CATA results, multiple correspondence analysis showed cherry and grape juices were associated to artificial-flavor and artificial-color, with the FSRC respondents being mainly responsible for the use of these descriptors. Pear and orange were considered to have natural-flavor and good-color, mainly by children and women. A generalized linear model was used to analyze the effect of 'sample,' 'city' and 'consumer segment' on the percentage of checks given to each descriptor. The 'consumer segment' effect was significant for nearly all descriptors, with FSRC checking samples differently to women and children. Practical Applications When convenience samples are assembled for food acceptability or CATA studies, the most convenient consumers to recruit often are food science students, staff or, in the case of companies, food science professionals or technicians. The consequences of using these convenience samples are not always considered. The present research is conclusive in showing the significant differences between FSRC and target populations, both in measuring acceptability and in consumer description using the CATA methodology. Development projects based on acceptability results from convenience samples of food scientists, students or technicians could lead to erroneous development directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Pomegranate ( PG) is a drought resistant crop, thriving well with scarce water resources. The non-climateric character of PG remarks the importance of determining the optimum harvest time to improve quality and phytochemical properties of PG. RESULTS The influence of two different irrigation treatments on physico-chemical and phytochemical parameters of PG was assessed. Control trees ( T0) were over irrigated (105% ETo). From the beginning of the second half of rapid fruit growth period to the last harvest, T1 plants were subjected to sustained deficit irrigation (33% ETo). Results indicated that T1 fruits exhibited a darker and more intense garnet colour than T0 fruits, but deficit irrigation led to a significant decrease in total fruit yield and number of total fruits per tree. T1 fruits showed similar bioactive quality than T0 fruits; however, T1 fruits advanced the optimal harvest time by about 7-8 days with respect to T0 fruits. CONCLUSIONS Late-pomegranate fruits were rich in phytochemicals and could be of great interest to the juice industry. Knowledge of these trends is important, especially to improve PG juice quality and to contribute to the sustainability of PG culture with respect to water, fertiliser and energy saving. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate fruit and its products are being widely promoted to consumers as healthy alternatives for their daily diet. The aim was to study the main sensory differences among twenty pomegranate cultivars, determining which cultivars have particular flavour or texture notes that could make them more appropriate for fresh consumption or processing. Four clusters grouped all samples, two of them included sour cultivars and two of them included sweet and sweet-sour cultivars. Cluster 1 (sour) was characterized by having floral, apple, and grape flavour notes and also producing a tongue numbing sensation. Cluster 2 (sour), which included the Wonderful cultivar, had samples with wine-like attributes. Clusters 3 and 4 (sweet and sour-sweet) were characterized by having overall sweet, pear and grape notes for cluster 3, and beet, fruity-dark, fermented, musty and woody flavour for cluster 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Pomegranate juice has gained a high reputation for its health properties and consequently is now a highly demanded product. However, owing to the limited production and high price of fresh pomegranates, adulteration of pomegranate juice seems to be happening. Hence it is imperative to establish criteria for detecting adulteration. RESULTS Addition of grape juice significantly increased the contents of Ca, Mg and Fe and especially tartaric acid and proline and simultaneously decreased the content of K. Addition of peach juice up to 10% (v/v) only resulted in a significant increase in sucrose content. Regarding the volatile composition, adulteration of pomegranate juice with grape juice resulted in significant increases in acetic acid, isoamyl butyrate and especially 1-hexanol and linalool, while adulteration with peach juice resulted in significant increases in butyl acetate, isobutyl butyrate, benzyl acetate and especially isoamyl butyrate. CONCLUSION The control protocols used in this study can serve as a basis for identification of pomegranate juice adulteration. It is important to highlight that it is necessary to simultaneously analyze and have results from several parameters to conclude that a particular pomegranate juice has been adulterated by mixing with another fruit juice. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare, for the first time, white and black mulberry species in terms of their main physicochemical characteristics in eight Spanish clones. The results showed significantly different characteristics between the black and white mulberry species. Fruit weight of mulberry species ranged from 2.10 to 4.15 g, and fruit juice yield, from 41% to 62%. Fructose (~61%) and glucose (~39%) were the predominant sugars in all mulberries. The MN1 clone displayed the highest total acidity (>2.6 g L−1), and malic acid was the most abundant organic acid (6.65 g kg−1). Cluster analysis has allowed grouping of the clones into three groups (i) MN1 and MN2; (ii) MN3 and MN4; and (iii) MA1, MA2, MA3 and MA4. Experimental results proved that Spanish mulberries have high potential for fresh consumption (attractive dark colour in Morus nigra clones, high sugars content and intense sweetness) and industrialisation (~50% juice yield, attractive juice colour, high content of crude fibre and intense sweetness). This study is also a step towards identification of this fruit as a potential healthy food, which may also be used in food industry and also have pharmaceutical interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Very-early apricot cultivars are interesting owing to the fact that they will be available in markets before any other cultivar. In order to achieve good fruit quality, very-early apricots require appropriate size, weight and color, good balance of sugars and organic acids, proper content of bioactive compounds, relatively strong apricot aroma as well as acceptable sensory quality. RESULTS Physical, chemical, antioxidant and sensory properties showed important variations among apricot cultivars. These differences were basically attributed to genetic reasons. Four very-early apricot cultivars were studied, namely 'Mirlo Blanco', 'Mirlo Anaranjado', 'Colorao' and 'Mogador'. All of them showed proper size and weight, but their contents of organic acids, sugars and bioactive compounds were low and the number of volatile compounds was also low. However, very-early apricots showed an appropriate sensory profile for fresh consumption. CONCLUSION Regarding physical, chemical and volatile composition and sensory properties, very-early apricot cultivars could be recommended for fresh consumption. However, future research must be focused on increasing their contents of sugars, organic acids and bioactive and volatile compounds, perhaps via cultural practices such as deficit irrigation and/or mulching. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analysed the effects of consuming 30 g per day of 'Jijona turrôn', a traditional Spanish Christmas nougat-type confection, on the circulating lipid parameters. Turrôn is made of toasted almonds, honey and sugar. To make this product more appealing to consumers who need to control their lipid or glucose levels, a new product containing inulin was developed. Macro- and micronutrient contents were similar in both turrôn with (JTI) or without (JT) inulin. A study with thirty-two volunteers was conducted, with a daily consumption of 30 g of either inulin-containing or not-inulin-containing turrôn for a total of 5 weeks. At the beginning and at the end of the study, the circulating lipid parameters were quantified. The volunteers consuming both types of products maintained their circulating cholesterol within normal levels; however, consumers of JT presented a slightly but significant 8% decrease in LDL cholesterol level. On the other hand, the group consuming JTI maintained the levels of glycosylated haemoglobin, while volunteers consuming JT presented low but significantly higher levels of glycosylated haemoglobin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pistachios have been roasted following the Iranian traditional method (soaking in salty water, drying and roasting at 135 °C). Three Iranian pistachio cultivars (Ahmad Aghaei, Akbari and Kaleghouchi) were compared for their volatile compositions, colour and odour intensity. Lightness decreased in the course of roasting, which resulted from Maillard reaction. Raw pistachios had lower concentrations of most volatiles than roasted. A total of twenty-six compounds were detected in roasted pistachios; these included aldehydes, terpenes, alcohols and only two pyrazines and one furan. These mixtures of volatiles implied that the Iranian roasting system is very soft, and samples retained most of the vegetable notes from fresh pistachios and some roasted notes were generated as well (from 2-ethyl-5-methylpyrazine and 2,6-dimethyl-3-ethylpyrazine). Sample from cultivar Akbari presented higher odour intensity than those by the other two cultivars, due mainly to higher concentrations of pyrazines developed during the roasting step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A lexicon for describing the sensory flavor and texture properties of turrón, a traditional Spanish Protected Geographical Indication almond nougat product, was developed and validated. Sixty-seven different products were studied, including different product types, brands, commercial categories and manufacturing seasons. Once the lexicon was developed, five products were studied by a different sensory panel to validate the terms. A total of 25 flavor and 16 texture attributes were identified, defined and referenced for turrón evaluation. The main flavor attributes were nutty overall and almond, followed by caramelized, roasted and brown sugar. Predominant texture attributes were different depending on the product because some products have milling stages during processing and others do not. Lexicon validation showed some inconsistencies in texture attributes, e.g., uniformity of bite, graininess/grittiness and cohesiveness. Further studies may be carried out to adapt the definitions and references to products from different countries, unifying therefore the developed lexicon. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Sensory lexicons are helpful for companies and researchers who are trying to improve uniformity of traditional products by providing standardized sensory terms, definitions and references for future studies. This study will be a model for beginning similar researches on other traditional products. The lexicon will be a tool to relate accurate descriptive data to consumer liking, information that could be use to expand production lines, end the seasonal production and sale of turrón and develop different types of almond nougats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The effects of organic farming, pasteurisation and addition of β-cyclodextrin on the content of vitamin C, colour, carotenoids and antioxidant capacity of orange juices were studied. After pasteurisation at 98 °C (20 s) and subsequently storage along 145 days at room temperature (20-25 °C), the loss of vitamin C content was around 30%. The effects of the thermal process on carotenoid were clearly observed in lutein (loss of 16% for organic and traditional 8%) and especially β-cryptoxanthin (loss of 30%). The colour changes were noticeable after the pasteurisation of orange juice and subsequent storage, with significant decreases being observed in lightness and the coordinate a*, while increases were found for coordinates b*, Hue* and chroma. The antioxidant capacity was 0.075 ± 0.01 and 0.053 ± 0.01 mMT mL−1 for organic and conventional, respectively, with losses around 40% being found at the end of the storage period. The addition of β-cyclodextrin caused no significant effects on the parameters under analysis. These data showed that strong thermal treatments, such as pasteurisation, adversely affect the nutritional and sensory quality of orange juices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study was integrated within a research line dedicated to test different options to introduce mandarin in the Spanish agrofood industries. The effects of four preservation liquids (lemon, mandarin, and Spanish and Brazilian orange juices) and three soluble solid contents (10, 12 and 14°Brix) processed at 98C for 30 s on vitamin C, color, carotenoids and sensory quality of canned Satsuma mandarin segments were studied. The preservation liquid providing the best results was mandarin juice, which led to the highest contents of vitamin C (369 mg/L) and total carotenoids (27.5 mg/L), intense orange color, high thermal stability and very good sensory quality (e.g., intense floral and fresh mandarin aromas and low levels of off-flavors). Independent of the preservation liquid used, the main carotenoid found in preserved mandarin segments wasβ -cryptoxanthin. On the other hand, the use of lemon juice as preservation was not recommended because this led to preserved products with, for instance, the lowest sweet taste, the lowest fresh mandarin aroma and the highest acid taste. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The use of mandarin and/or orange juices as preservation liquids of Satsuma segments is completely adequate from a sensory point of view and will significantly increase the nutritional value of this product (vitamin C and provitamin A activity carotenoids). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to characterise, physico-chemically, sugar composition and aroma profile of ten honey samples collected by small producers during two seasons and produced in different agricultural ecosystems from Tabasco State (Mexico). The mean values obtained for the physico-chemical parameters were: pH 3.63; 19.25% moisture; 78.8°Brix sugar; 0.64% ash; 0.25 mS cm−1 electrical conductivity and 0.58 water activity. Based on colour parameters, Tabasco honeys can be placed in the group of dark honeys. In the analysed samples; fructose was the major sugar (39.45%), followed by glucose (35.74%) while sucrose only represented 2.93%. The volatile profiles of the ten honey samples were obtained by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. All the honeys were characterised by their high contents of benzene and furan-related compounds. As a result, artisanal honeys from Tabasco (Mexico) can be considered to present a good level of quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

‘ A la piedra’ turrón is the simplest version of turrón and was used as model matrix to add a functional ingredient: bee propolis (0.05%). Propolis possesses antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties; however, its flavour is quite intense and not expected in confections. The aroma profiles of control and functional ‘ a la piedra’ (ALP) turrón were studied. A total of fifty-nine compounds were detected, including mainly terpenes (twenty-one), terpenoids (fourteen) and aldehydes (eight). Most of these compounds come from lemon peel (thirty-four out of fifty-nine). However, descriptive sensory analysis proved that other attributes, such as toasted, nutty, cinnamon, sweet and aftertaste, were also of importance. The addition of propolis at the selected ratio did not changed neither the instrumental aroma profile nor the descriptive sensory profile of this confection but will improve its health benefits by incorporating into the consumers’ diet 50 mg propolis per 100 g of functional ALP turrón. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toasting is one of the most important unit operations in turrón manufacture. The main objective was to study changes in volatile compounds and sensory odour and aroma during almond toasting. Two almond cultivars were studied ‘Comuna’ and ‘Marcona’. CIE L* a* b* colour, instrumental aroma and sensory odour and flavour were evaluated in toasted almonds (200 °C: the most popular temperature for almond toasting in convection ovens) at five times from 12 to 23 min. The main pyrazines found were: 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, 2-methylpyrazine and 2,4-dimethyl-3-ethylpyrazine. Pyrazines, furans and pyrroles concentrations in ‘Comuna’ almonds were higher than in ‘Marcona’ samples at the end of toasting; however, sensory analysis showed that 23 min were too long for ‘Comuna’ almonds (burnt notes) and shorter toasting time must be applied. Based on both instrumental and sensory colour and aroma data, the recommended toasting time at 200 °C in convection ovens for ‘Comuna’ and ‘Marcona’ almonds should be 20 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refrigerated mandarin juice was packed in four different containers, three cartons with different composition and one polyethylene terephthalate transparent bottle, and was stored at 4C for 90 days. During the storage of these juices, changes in the headspace gas composition, vitamin C, and CIE L *, a * and b * color coordinates were evaluated. In addition, a consumer panel evaluated the sensory color, fresh mandarin flavor and presence of off-flavors in the juices. Experimental data indicated that the deterioration of mandarin juices (ascorbic acid degradation and darkening of color) was triggered by the rise in oxygen in the headspace of the storage containers. The type of container played a predominant role in determining the juice quality, with carton containers with an inner layer of aluminum foil providing the juices with the best quality throughout their storage. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Results from this study will provide manufacturers of mandarin juice with information dealing with the storage and quality of juices packed in different containers. In this way, if manufacturers want to use transparent polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles showing the color and appearance of the juice, they will be aware that the shelf life of the juice will be much shorter than in packed cartons; this reduction will be from more than 90 to 36 days (PET bottle). On the other hand, if manufacturers want to use carton for their packaging, they will be aware that using a container with a thick inner layer of aluminum foil will maintain the quality of the juice for a longer time (over 90 days) compared with a shelf life of about 54 days from cartons with an inner layer of ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

' A la piedra' turrón is a typical Spanish confection prepared from toasted almonds, sugar, lemon peel and cinnamon; it is the simplest version of turrón. To date, no information has been available on aroma profiles of any type of turrón. The aroma profiles of ' a la piedra' turrón from two different manufacturing companies were studied. A total of 66 compounds were detected, including terpenes (21), terpenoids (16), aldehydes (8), pyrazines (5), furans (3), pyrroles (2), aromatic hydrocarbons (7) and others (4). The predominant volatile compounds were those originated from the lemon peel (≈30%), the most characteristic and important ingredient of this food from a flavour point of view. However, descriptive sensory analysis proved that other attributes, such as toasted, nutty, cinnamon, sweet and aftertaste, were also of importance. The low levels of pyrazines (the chemical group most characteristic of toasted nuts) were probably related to a deficient and not optimized toasting process. Thus, further studies are needed to optimize the roasting conditions of almonds. Finally, this study proved that the flavour of this type of turrón was dominated by the lemon peel and cinnamon notes, and that low-toasted almonds were used in its manufacture. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]