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Oyster refinement using land-based pond systems is a new activity in the Dutch oyster sector. It increases the oyster's tissue weight and changes its sensorial properties. However, the response of Dutch consumers towards refined oysters is unknown. The research aim was to gain insight into the importance of oyster quality parameters, drivers for oyster consumption, and acceptance of refined oysters by Dutch consumers, taking into account the information given to them about the product and process.; Results: Taste, texture, and odor are the most important oyster quality characteristics for Dutch consumers. The outcome of questionnaires showed that willingness to buy and pay is influenced by factors such as the oysters' country of origin, cultivation area, and flavor profile. Refinement did not affect willingness to buy and pay. Furthermore Dutch consumers seem to have a preference for the flavor profile of refined oysters. Consumer evaluation showed that refined Pacific cupped oysters were perceived as sweeter compared with non-refined oysters. When information on the cultivation process was disclosed, overall appreciation of refined oysters by consumers increased.; Conclusion: New insights in the importance of oyster quality characteristics for Dutch consumers are generated that can be used in the development of refined Pacific cupped oysters. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.; © 2018 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

10 pages, 4 figures, 5 tables, Oyster refinement, a common practice in France, is aimed at increasing the weight of oyster tissue and influencing the taste properties of the refined oysters. Refinement usually takes place in land-based systems where the oysters are fed with relatively high concentrations of microalgae. In this study the impact of feeding Skeletonema costatum and Rhodomonas baltica on the biochemical composition and sensory characteristics of Pacific cupped oysters (Crassostrea gigas) from the Eastern Scheldt during land-based refinement was studied. After a feeding period of four and seven weeks market-sized oysters were sampled for the analysis of fatty acids, free amino acids and volatile organic compounds and for a sensory evaluation by consumers and an expert panel. The algae Skeletonema costatum showed a lower ∑ PUFA, ∑ n − 3, ∑ n − 6, C18:2n6, C18:3n3, C18:4n3, C22:6n3 content as compared with Rhodomonas baltica. These differences were also reflected in the fatty acid profile of the oysters fed with the corresponding algae diets. Furthermore, general linear model and principal component analysis showed marked differences in free amino acids and volatile organic compound content between Skeletonema, Rhodomonas fed oysters and reference oysters. For example, threonine, glutamine, leucine, histidine, (E)-2-hexenal, (E)-2octenal, (E)-2-octen-1-ol, (E,E)-2,4-octadien-1-ol, (E,Z)-3,6-nonadien-1-ol and (Z,E)-2,6-nonadienal contents were higher in Skeletonema fed oysters compared to Rhodomonas fed oysters. Sensory differences between the experimental oyster groups were shown. Skeletonema fed Pacific cupped oysters were characterized by a stronger seaweed flavor, higher perceived sweetness and a firmer texture in comparison with Rhodomonas fed oysters. Naïve consumers were only able to differentiate between Rhodomonas fed oysters and reference oysters, This research was partially funded by the project Zilte Parels (Nationaal Regieorgaan Praktijkgericht Onderzoek SIA) and by the Interreg IV Project AquaVlan

Experts in the oyster supply chain (farmers, retailers, and gourmet chefs) in The Netherlands have suggested that the European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) has superior sensory qualities compared to the Pacific cupped oyster (Crassostrea gigas). However, scientific evidence is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate consumer preferences for these two oyster species and to determine the sensory properties of both species by consumers. Two-alternative forced choice tests were performed with the oysters involving a panel of 74 naïve consumers. No significant differences in preferences between the oyster species were observed by the consumers. Nine sensory attributes of both oyster species were evaluated. Consumers did not observe significant differences between species in the sensory attributes: overall odor intensity, sea odor, mud odor, sweetness, pungency, and firmness. The Pacific cupped oyster was perceived as significantly saltier and more intense in greenness than the European flat oyster. We concluded that only a few sensory properties of the European flat oyster and the Pacific cupped oyster are perceived as being different by untrained consumers.

8 pages, 3 figures, 4 tables, The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two important different geographical cultivation areas in the Netherlands (Eastern Scheldt and Lake Grevelingen) on the volatile organic compound (VOC) profile of European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) and Pacific cupped oyster (Crassostrea gigas). Market size oysters were analyzed for biochemical composition (dry matter, ash, protein, lipid content and fatty acid profile) and VOCs from samples harvested in January and February. Significant differences in fatty acids and in VOC content were observed between the oyster species. The European flat oyster was found to have a higher level of unsaturated fatty acids in comparison with Pacific cupped oysters. The main VOC in the European flat oyster was found to be 3-cyclohexene-1-ethanol while 1,5-octadien-3-ol was the main VOC in the Pacific cupped oyster. Principle component analysis (PCA) not only showed separation between oyster species, but also between oysters originating from different cultivation areas as well as oysters harvested at different time intervals., This research was partially funded by the project Zilte Parels (Nationaal Regieorgaan Praktijkgericht Onderzoek SIA) 2012-20-23M and COST Action Feed for Health FA 0802.

A kinetic model for the formation of acrylamide in a fructose–asparagine reaction system at initial pH 5.5 is proposed, based on an approach called multiresponse kinetic modelling. The formation of acetic acid and formic acid from the degradation of fructose and its isomer glucose was included in the proposed kinetic model. The kinetic model suggests that the effect of temperature on acrylamide formation with fructose is more due to the preceding steps with the formation of the Schiff base. The use of fructose and lower pH resulted in a higher yield of acrylamide (3%), suggesting that both can play an important role in acrylamide mitigation. Furthermore, these models have shown that, at high temperatures (120–200 °C), the Maillard reaction rapidly goes into the advanced stages, forming high amounts of organic acids and high molecular weight melanoidins. Overall, these mechanistic models provide more insight of the formation of acrylamide in a quantitative way.

Amaranth caudatus seeds were popped and studied for optimal popping conditions and flavor compounds. The optimum popping temperature for the seeds was 180C. At this temperature, the expansion volume, flake size and unpopped kernel proportion were 9.4¿11.3 cm3/g, 0.010¿0.012 cm/g and 10¿2%, respectively. Flavor compounds of raw and popped seed flour were isolated with a dynamic headspace procedure and were analyzed and identified by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The main volatile compounds of raw seeds were 2, 4-dimethyl-1-heptene, 4-methylheptane, branched C11. H24 alkane and dodecene C12. H24 isomer. Those compounds represented about 70% of the total volatile compounds of the raw seeds. Most of the volatiles identified in popped seeds were aldehydes formed by Strecker degradation including 2-methylpropanal, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylbutanal and phenylacetaldehyde. Also, alkylpyrazines such as methylpyrazine, vinylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylptrazine and 3-ethyl-2, 5-dimethylpyrazine were found. These compounds could be characterized as cornlike, nutty, hazelnutty and having roasty odors, and they were not present in the raw seeds.

The oil fractions of Amaranthus caudatus L. and Amaranthus cruentus L. seeds were studied after different treatments of the seeds. The oil contents were 7.1 and 8.5% for raw A. caudatus L. and A. cruentus L. seeds, and consisted of 80.3?82.3% of triacylglycerols (TAGs). Phospholipids represented 9.1?10.2% of the oil. The squalene content was 4.8?4.9% in both types of oil. Air classification increased the lipid content and decreased the content of squalene, while heating (popping and cooking) increased the squalene content. After germination, the lipid fraction was decreased in their TAGs and increased in their phospholipids. The main fatty acid composition (palmitic, linoleic and oleic) was not affected by thermal treatments or by germination of the seeds. The hydroperoxide stability test showed that the stability of amaranth oil was more than that of sunflower oil. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS This research provides some information about the effect of different treatments ? including heat treatments, germination and air classification ? on the oil characteristics of two species of amaranth seeds. Fatty acids and triacylglycerol profiles, lipid fractions and squalene content were the main characteristics studied during this research. The stability of the oil against oxidation is also presented as compared with sunflower oil. The results of this research provide a clearer picture for the potential use of amaranth oil on an industrial scale and its characteristic stability under different process conditions

A new, energy efficient production process for French fries was developed and evaluated. Superheated steam (SHS) was used for evaporation of water instead of pre-drying with air and par-frying with oil. The product was frozen by vacuum cooling. Unfortunately, with this process it was not possible to reach the quality of conventional French fries. Sensory analysis indicated that the main quality defect was a tough crust with a fatty appearance. Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy showed that this was caused by skin formation on the surface during both SHS drying and vacuum cooling. A frying step was necessary to obtain a porous crust. A satisfactory product quality was feasible after drying with SHS instead of air. Due to the concessions made for the product quality, the final energy reduction was limited. Nevertheless, this study has gained more insight into how processing affects potato tissue on micro-scale and it has shown that a porous structure is essential for good quality French fries.

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify odour active compounds from French fries at mouth conditions. Volatile compounds were released from French fries by purge-and-trap, trapped on Tenax TA, and identified with GC–MS. GC–olfactometry was used to determine odour active compounds with a trained panel using the detection frequency method. A total of 122 compounds were identified of which 85% originated from either sugar degradation and/or Maillard reaction and 15% from lipid degradation, based on relative areas. About 50 odour active compounds were, due to coelution, responsible for 41 odours perceived by the panel. 3-Methylbutanal and 2-methylbutanal, hexanal, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2-methylpropanal, 2,3-butanedione, pyridine, heptanal, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine and/or 2,6-diemethylpyrazine and/or ethylpyrazine, dimethyl trisulfide, octanal, phenylacetaldehyde, 2,5-diethylpyrazine, (E)-2-nonenal, 3-methylbutanoic acid and/or 2-methylbutanoic acid, (E,Z)-2,4-heptadienal, (E)-2-octenal, 5-ethyl-2,3-dimethylpyrazine and/or 2-ethyl- 3,5-dimethylpyrazine, nonanal, and tentatively 2-methylpyrrole had the highest detection frequencies. This resulted in a strong malty and fried potato note, combined with caramel/buttery, green, spicy, and deep-fried notes. Also chemical and sweaty odours were observed.

A kinetic model for the formation of acrylamide in a glucose-asparagine reaction system is pro-posed. Equimolar solutions (0.2 M) of glucose and asparagine were heated at different temperatures (120-200 degrees C) at pH 6.8. Besides the reactants, acrylamide, fructose, and melanoidins were quantified after predetermined heating times (0-45 min). Multiresponse modeling by use of nonlinear regression with the determinant criterion was used to estimate model parameters. The proposed model resulted in a reasonable estimation for the formation of acrylamide in an aqueous model system, although the behavior of glucose, fructose, and asparagine was slightly underestimated. The formation of acrylamide reached its maximum when the concentration of sugars was reduced to about 0. This supported previous research, showing that a carbonyl source is needed for the formation of acrylamide from asparagine. Furthermore, it is observed that acrylamide is an intermediate of the Maillard reaction rather than an end product, which implies that it is also subject to a degradation reaction.

The effects of seed treatments, including cooking, popping, germination and flour air classification on several components of Amaranthus caudatus and A. cruentus seeds, including oil, sugars, fibre, minerals and vitamins were studied. The lipid, crude and dietary fibre, ash, and sugar contents were 71, 43, 140, 30 and 18 g kg-1 in raw A. caudatus and 85, 39, 134, 40 and 22 g kg-1 in raw A. cruentus seeds, respectively. Sucrose was the dominant sugar in the raw and thermal treated seeds of both species, while glucose and galactose were the dominant ones in the high protein and the germinated seed flours. Phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium were the dominant minerals in the raw seeds of both species. Air classification increased the content of minerals by more than 35% while thermal treatments did not affect their content and germination increased the calcium and zinc contents. The ascorbic acid contents were 0.030 and 0.023 g kg-1 sample in raw A. caudatus and A. cruentus seeds, respectively. All the treatments reduced the ascorbic acid content, with a high effect for the air classification and the germinated seeds dried at 90 °C. The levels of vitamin B complex, including niacin, niacinamide, pyridoxine and riboflavin were increased in the high protein flour fraction (protein contents of these fractions of A. caudatus and A. cruentus were 263.9 g kg-1 and 246.6 g kg-1, respectively) and decreased in the thermal treated flours. Germination mostly increased the amounts of those vitamins while drying reduced their amounts.

Flavor release from French fries was measured with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) using both assessors (in vivo) and a mouth model system (in vitro). Several volatiles measured with APCI were identified with MS-MS. The effect of frying time, salt addition, and an alternative process using superheated steam was determined on I(max) (maximum intensity of compounds) and on t(max) (time of maximum intensity). In vitro a "chewing" frequency of 0.60 Hz caused an increased t(max) for low molecular weight compounds compared to the other frequencies tested. Above 0.93 Hz further increase in the frequency did not affect t(max). Trends observed with in vivo experiments could be verified with in vitro experiments. I(max) correlated well with frying time. Addition of salt resulted in a decreased t(max), suggesting a salting-out effect. The alternative process caused a layer of oil on the surface, and this resulted in a higher t(max), but no effect on I(max) was found. This phenomenon may be critical for the sensory quality and would not have been observed with static volatile measurements, demonstrating the value of flavor release measurements.

The nutritional value of raw and popped (similar to popcorn preparation) seed proteins of two amaranth species, Amaranthus caudatus L and A cruentus L, was investigated. After popping, the true protein content in A caudatus and A cruentus decreased by 9 and 13% respectively. Among the amino acids, the loss of tyrosine due to the popping effect was the highest, followed by phenylalanine and methionine. Leucine was the first limiting amino acid in the raw samples, followed by lysine, while the reverse order was observed in the popped samples. The in vivo protein quality of raw and popped seeds was tested with male weanling rats and compared with wheat flour and casein samples. There was no difference between the in vivo digestibility of the raw and the popped seeds, although the in vitro digestibility was slightly higher for the popped samples. The protein efficiency ratio (PER) for all the amaranth seed samples was higher than that for the wheat sample, while the PER for the raw amaranth seed samples was close to that for the casein reference protein. The rat blood serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol for all the amaranth samples were lower than those for the reference protein, while the wheat flour sample showed the lowest values. (C) 2004 Society of Chemical Industry.

The composition of radical-scavenging compounds from Geranium macrorrhizum leaves was analyzed and the antioxidative activities of various extracts was determined. Seven compounds, namely gallic acid, ellagic acid, 4-galloyl quinic acid, the flavonoid quercetin and three of its glycosides, quercetin-3-beta-glucopyranoside, quercetin-3-beta-galactopyranoside and quercetin-4'-beta-glucopyranoside were isolated and identified in the various fractions. The radical-scavenging activity of the isolated compounds was measured using DPPHcircle and ABTS(circle+) scavenging assays and compared with the activity of rosmarinic acid. Quercetin-3-glucopyranoside and quercetin-3-galactopyranoside showed the highest antioxidative capacities. Antioxidative activities of all plant fractions were assessed by model system tests (superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide scavenging) and by oxidation tests (beta-carotene bleaching, peroxide value, UV absorbance and headspace-gas chromatography hexanal determination). The ethanol-butanol fraction of the plant possessed the highest activity in most of the tests.

Plant samples from several species and populations of the genus Sideritis (Labiatae) grown in Bulgaria (S scardica, S syriaca and S montana) were extracted with different solvents. Their antioxidant activities were determined by the -carotene bleaching test (BCBT), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method and static headspace gas chromatography (HS-GC) and compared with the antioxidant activity of two reference compounds of different polarity, viz butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and rosmarinic acid. The pure reference compounds were applied in a ten-times lower concentration than the plant extracts. The highest antioxidant activity in the BCBT, close to that of BHT, was observed for the more apolar extracts. The inhibitory effect on -carotene bleaching of the polar extracts and rosmarinic acid was much lower than that of BHT. The inhibition of hexanal formation in bulk safflower oil by most of S syriaca and S scardica extracts was as effective as BHT but less so than rosmarinic acid. S montana extracts showed weak antioxidant or even pro-oxidant properties. Extracts from butanol and from ethyl acetate and the total methanol extracts from all Sideritis plants studied showed a strong radical scavenging activity against DPPH, close to that of rosmarinic acid. S montana extracts were, as a whole, slightly weaker radical inhibitors than the extracts from the other two species. The antioxidant activity of Sideritis extracts was attributed to the presence of flavonoid and phenylpropanoid glycosides

The physical properties of starches from 3 typical Chinese sweet potato varieties (SuShu2, SuShu8, and XuShu18) were studied in relation to their noodle-making performance. The starch gel properties of SuShu2 differed from those of SuShu8 and XuShu18. As determined by both instrumental and sensory analysis the use of SuShu8 starch resulted in better noodle quality compared to XuShu18 and SuShu2 starches. The gel properties and noodle quality of the 3 sweet-potato starches were clearly different from those of mung-bean starch. Correlation between starch noodle quality and gel properties of the original starches was established.

Food packaging, although an integral part of the food chain, has a major drawback in that, often, the packaging material interacts with the flavor constituents of the food, causing either a selective or an extensive loss of desirable food flavors or absorption of undesirable off-flavors from the packaging material, thereby resulting in an eventual loss of quality of the packaged food item. The process is called "scalping" and is of great concern to the food industry, which is always looking out for new avenues in "packaging solutions" for its final product quality needs. The review highlights the various attributes of the scalping process, explores approaches to the reduction of the manifested undesirable effects, and covers other relevant aspects.

The effect of variously processed spinach products (whole-leaf, minced and enzymatically liquefied spinach) on lipid oxidation was determined. In an autoxidative methyl linoleate (MeLo) system the inhibition of hydroperoxide formation, measured by HPLC after three days of oxidation, was in descending order: whole-leaf > liquefied > minced spinach. The inhibition of formation of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and hexanal by spinach was determined in cooked meatballs with added spinach after two days of storage at 4 degrees C. The formation of TBARS was inhibited by liquefied spinach at 200 g/kg meat; all other spinach products tested at 100 and 200 g/kg were pro-oxidative. The formation of hexanal was inhibited by both minced and liquefied spinach at 100 and 200 g/kg meat. The variously processed spinach products behaved differently when tested for their antioxidant activity (MeLo) or oxidative stability (meatballs). We conclude that the effect of spinach products on lipid oxidation is affected by processing.

2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) scavenging activity-guided fractionation of a leaf extract of Thymus vulgaris led to the isolation of the radical scavengers rosmarinic acid 1, eriodictyol, taxifolin, luteolin 7-glucuronide, p-cymene 2,3-diol, p-cymene 2,3-diol 6−6‘-dimer, carvacrol, thymol, and a new compound, 2. The fractionation was considerably facilitated by using an on-line HPLC detector for radical scavenging activity. In this detector activity is monitored as the disappearance of the color of a postcolumn added stable radical after reacting with radical scavengers in a reaction coil. Compound 2, which consists of rosmarinic and caffeic acid moieties linked via a C-3‘−C-8‘ ‘ ether bridge, was mainly elucidated by various NMR techniques and CD. Phenylpropanoid trimer 2 was a weaker and stronger radical scavenger than rosmarinic acid 1 in off-line TEAC and DPPH• assays, respectively.

Acetone extracts (AE), deodorised acetone extracts (DAE), and deodorised water extracts (DWE) from leaves of horehound (Marrubium vulgare L. ) were tested for their antioxidant activity in rapeseed ( Brassica napus L.) oil at 80 °C. Well investigated antioxidants containing extracts (AE and DAE) of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) were used for comparison purposes. The effect of the extracts on the edible oil stability was assessed by measuring weight gain, peroxide value, and the UV absorption. The antioxidant activity of AE and DAE of horehound were comparable to the antioxidant activity of AE and DAE of sage. For both plants AE was shown to have better antioxidant properties than DAE. The volatile components of horehound were hydrodistilled and analysed by GC and GC/MS. Totally, 47 components were identified in the essential oil (EO), the main ones being (Z)- β-farnesene, βcaryophyllene, (E)-hex-2-enal, α-humulene, and germacrene D. Thirtynine constituents are reported in M. vulgare for the first time.

Dutch-style fermented sausages were manufactured with 15% and 30% pork back-fat substitution by pure or commercial encapsulated fish oil, either added as such or as pre-emulsified mixture with soy protein isolate. Adding commercial encapsulated fish oil was the most important factor influencing the chemical composition. The fat content was not significantly different between products (p > 0.05). The n−6/n−3 ratio decreased from 8.49 in controls to 0.90–2.47 in modified products. Lipid oxidation parameters (propanal and hexanal) showed much higher values for sausages with pure fish oil than for products with encapsulated oil. For the latter, lipid oxidation was similar to controls. Products with encapsulated or pre-emulsified oil were significantly firmer than products from other treatments in physical and sensory analysis (p

Taste recognition threshold concentrations (TRTC) of styrene were determined in samples of oil-in-water emulsions (30–300 g kg−1 oil) and yoghurts (1–30 g kg−1 fat), spiked with styrene. The observed TRTC increased linearly with increasing fat content and ranged from 0–3 to 2–1 mg kg−1 for the emulsions and from 36 to 171 g kg−1 for the yoghurts. Styrene equilibrium partition coefficients between emulsions and their respective vapour phases were determined. The concentrations of styrene in the continuous aqueous phase of the emulsions and yoghurts were calculated at the TRTC. The styrene concentrations in the continuous phase had constant values of about 15 g kg−1 indicating that perception of styrene for oil-in–water emulsions is determined by the aqueous phase of the emulsion. The concentrations of styrene in the vapor phases above the emulsions and yoghurts were also calculated and were found to be constant at the TRTC. This relationship probably resulted from the equilibrium of distribution of styrene between the respective phases. Commercial yoghurt packed in polystyrene beakers contained styrene levels in the range 2–11 g kg−1, much lower then the TRTC reported.

Three empirical models were used to fit the formation of acrylamide in crisps of three different cold-sweetened potato genotypes, fried under the same experimental conditions. Statistical methods were used to compare the performance of the models, with the 'Logistic-Exponential' model performing the best. The obtained model parameters for the formation of acrylamide showed improvement in precision compared to an earlier study, the precision of the parameter estimates for the degradation of acrylamide was still problematic. Nevertheless, the predictive capacity of the 'Logistic-Exponential' model was tested, as this model showed a strong correlation between parameter a and the reducing sugar content of the raw potato. The predictions from this model for the formation of acrylamide in potato crisps were close to earlier reported experimental values. Therefore, the use of the 'Logistic-Exponential' model as a tool to predict acrylamide in potato crisps seems promising and should be developed further.

A panel of 48 assessors evaluated a taint in water, packed in test pouches made of low density polyethylene (LDPE) lined aluminium. This panel agreed upon eight descriptive attributes (in Dutch): metallic (metaal), syn thetic (synthetisch), dry (droog), rough (stroef), astringent (wrang), musty (muf), sickly (wee) and penetrating (doordringend). Fourteen assessors, selected with a standard triangle test, were asked to judge intensities for these attri butes on a visual analogue scale. Factor analysis reduced the original data- matrix to a six dimensional one losing only 6.4% of the original variance. Syn thetic and penetrating loaded high on one factor as well as rough and astringent on another one. Musty, sickly, metallic and dry loaded high on sepa rate factors. Direct dynamic headspace analysis of the LDPE-lined test pouches gave mainly peaks of branched alkanes of 12 carbon atoms. However, dynamic head space analysis of water in contact with the LDPE layer of the test pouches showed no alkanes but (C4 - C11) aldehydes and ketones.

The formation of acrylamide in potato crisps was fitted by empirical mathematical models. Potato slices were fried under the same experimental conditions for different times. Besides the content of precursors in the raw potato slices, acrylamide and water content in the potato crisps were quantified after predetermined times (2-6 min). The temperature developments in the surrounding oil and outer cell layer of the potato slices were monitored, giving more insight in the frying process and making future comparisons between studies possible. The pattern found for the formation of acrylamide, which was similar to earlier studies, was fitted to three empirical models. Statistical methods were used to compare the performance of the models, with the "Logistic-Exponential" and "Empirical" model performing equally well. The obtained model parameters were in the range of earlier reported studies, although this comparison is not unequivocal as the experimental conditions differed between studies. The precision of parameter estimates was problematic; this should be improved by better experimental design. Nevertheless, the approach of this study will make it possible to truly compare acrylamide formation patterns and model parameters in the future, with the ability to develop a tool to predict acrylamide formation in potato crisps.

Dutch style fermented sausages were manufactured with a substitution of 10%, 15% and 20% of pork backfat by flaxseed oil and canola oil, pre-emulsified with soy protein isolate. The 15% and 20% substitution were also reached by adding encapsulated flaxseed oil and encapsulated fish oil and by adding flaxseed oil, pre-emulsified with sodium caseinate, respectively. The products were sliced, packaged in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere and stored in the dark for 12 weeks at 7 °C. No differences were detected in moisture, protein and fat content between control and modified sausages, with the exception of the formulation with sodium caseinate. The PUFA/SFA ratio increased from 0.30 in the control to 0.42-0.48 in the sausages with canola oil and to 0.49-0.71 in the sausages with flaxseed oil. The n - 6/n - 3 ratio decreased from 11.20 in the control to 6.94-5.12 in the sausages with canola oil and to 1.93-1.05 in the sausages with flaxseed oil. The addition of canola oil and encapsulated flaxseed oil resulted in a comparable shelf life as the control in terms of lipid oxidation. In the samples with addition of pre-emulsified flaxseed oil, especially with sodium caseinate, lipid oxidation clearly increased during storage. Physical and sensory analysis showed that the sausages with encapsulated fish oil and flaxseed oil resembled the control most

Antioxidative properties of Geranium macrorrhizum, Potentilla fruticosa and Rosmarinus officinalis (as a reference) extracts were evaluated in Dutch style fermented sausages. Extracts were incorporated into sausages during preparation. The sausages were subsequently fermented, tested and compared to a standard spices mix, traditionally used for the production of such sausages. Formation of the primary oxidation products ¿ peroxides, and secondary ¿ TBARS and hexanal was monitored. The polar extracts from Potentilla showed some antioxidant activity, especially in combination with ascorbate, however the activity was low compared to the standard spices mix. Polar extracts from Geranium showed only negligible antioxidant activity.

An experimental design was used to study the effect of pre-drying (to 10, 15 and 20% weight loss) and par-frying conditions (160, 170 and 180 °C) on the crispness of French fries. Par-frying time was adjusted with a software program to obtain equal moisture content and internal texture for all samples. Crispness was evaluated with a sensory panel. Furthermore, samples were analysed with a texture analyser and with confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM). Par-frying at 180 °C resulted in a crispier product than at 160 and 170 °C. Pre-drying to 20% weight loss lead to blisters and reduced crispness in comparison with pre-drying to 10 and 15% weight loss. Instrumental texture measurements showed a good correlation with sensory crispness. Large differences in cell structure, such as blisters, could be observed with CSLM. CSLM was useful to explain results from the instrumental and sensory texture evaluation.

The aim of this research was to use anti-radical power (ARP) to study early lipid oxidation events during frying. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH¿) test was used to determine the ARP. As oil does not dissolve completely in methanol, which is generally used for the DPPH¿ test, butanol was used instead. Changing the solvent did not influence the value of the ARP. The decrease of the ARP highly correlated with the increase of the peroxide value for soybean oil heated at 110 °C (R2 = 0.99). Sensory analysis showed that rancidity of soybean oil and frying oil, heated at 180 °C, was perceived before the ARP decreased. Once the oil was perceived as rancid, the intensity of rancidity did not change significantly upon further heating. The ARP of soybean oil was found to decrease faster at 110 °C than at 180 °C, suggesting different mechanisms of radical formation. The total polar compounds of frying oil in which French fries were fried did not differ significantly from frying oil that was heated alone. However, frying of French fries caused more hydrolysis of the oil, while the ARP decreased faster when the oil was heated alone

The effects of seed treatments, including cooking, popping germination and flour air classification, on the functional properties and antinutritional factors of Amaranthus caudatus and Amaranthus cruentus seeds were studied. Thermal treatments increased the water absorption with a maximum value of 5.1 and 6.3 g g−1 in flour of popped seeds of both species. Generally, fat absorption increased after the treatments. Air classification and germination followed by drying at low temperature increased the foam stability of the flours, while thermal treatment and germination followed by drying at higher temperatures reduced the foam stability. All treatments except air classification decreased the emulsion stability. Also, all treatments except germination followed by drying at 30 °C increased the flour dispersibility, whereas the soluble nitrogen index was increased in the germinated seed flours and decreased in thermal treated seeds and air-classified flours. Air classification increased the contents of phenolic compounds and phytate and decreased the contents of enzyme inhibitors, whereas the thermal treatments reduced the contents of phenolic compounds, phytate and enzyme inhibitors to a greater extent for cooking than for popping. Germination followed by drying reduced the level of phenolic compounds, phytate and enzyme inhibitors. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry

Nylon 6 and nylon 12 food packaging materials used as sausage casings are typically exposed to fatty food on one side and boiling water on the other during the cooking process. To simulate the migration behaviour under these conditions, a special migration cell was constructed and filled with olive oil on one side of the polymer and water on the other to find out what amounts of the migrants will transfer to either side and phase at 100 degreesC. Results show that when a nylon 6 film is exposed to the conditions as described above, total mass transfer of the monomer-caprolactam-into the water phase occurs after 2 h at 100 degreesC. Nylon 12 sausage casings release similar amounts of their monomer-laurolactam-into both the aqueous and oil phase. An existing computer migration model was adapted to simulate the situation of simultaneous two-sided migration applying previously determined diffusion and partitioning coefficients. The suitability of the model was confirmed by experimental data.

The seeds of two Amaranth species were studied. The starch contents were 543 and 623gkg −1 while crude protein contents were 154 and 169gkg −1 for Amaranthus caudatus and Amaranthus cruentus seeds, respectively. The effect of several treatments, including cooking, popping and germination and flour air classification on the protein and starch properties were studied. Air classification decreased the starch content and increased the protein content, while heating increased the protein but did not affect the starch content. Germination decreased both starch and protein contents. Amylose content was increased by air classification and heating, but was not affected by germination. It was found that all treatments increased the starch swelling power and reduced the falling number. The resistant starch content was increased in the high protein flour (HPF) fraction and germinated flour compared with the raw flour, while its content decreased in the heat treated seed flours. These processes also affected the starch gelatinization temperature and peak viscosity. The thermal properties of the starch flour were not affected by air classification while gelatinization energy was decreased significantly (by 52.0 and 90.0% and by 70.0 and 95.0%) in cooked and popped Ac audatusand Ac ruentusseed flours, respectively. The gelatinization energy was highest in germinated seeds dried at 90 ◦ C with values of 2.67 and 3.87Jg −1 .A ir classification reduced the level of all protein fractions. Thermal treatment decreased the water-soluble fraction (albumins + globulins) and alcohol-soluble fraction (prolamins) in both species. The levels of all fractions except the water-soluble fraction (albumins + globulins) were reduced significantly in both species by germination, which mainly increased the amount of aspartic acid, serine and alanine, while the amounts of threonine, arginine and tyrosine decreased in both species. The polypeptide bands of the HPF in both species were unchanged compared with the raw seed flours, but more intensive coloured bands were observed. Thermal treatments eliminated major and minor bands above 35.0KDa in both species.  2004 Society of Chemical Industry

The effects on ionising irradiation on polymer additives, monomers and polymers themselves have been investigated. Changes of initial concentrations of certain additives and monomers, a change in their specific migration as well as sensory changes of the polymers were examined. Polymer stabilizers such as Irganox 1076 and Irgafos 168 used in polyethylene were found to be degraded by ionising radiation. Decreased concentrations of stabilisers in polyolefins led to lower specific migration, however, not to lower overall migration into food simulants. Irganox 1076 levels in polystyrene did not change up to irradiation doses of 54 kGy. Sensory properties of LDPE, HDPE, PA6 and PA12 worsened, while sensory properties of PS improved with increasing irradiation doses.

The paper describes a project with the main objective of developing the know how to produce certified reference materials (CRMs) for specific migration testing. Certification parameters discussed are the initial concentration of the migrant in the polymer (C-P,C- 0) and the specific migration into a food simulant under certain temperature/time conditions. Sixteen preliminary candidate CRMs were defined and produced. The most important polymers (low- and high-density polyethylene ( LDPE and HDPE), polypropylene ( PP), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephtalate (PET), plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rigid PVC, polyamides (PA)) and additives as well as monomers representing different physicochemical properties as target substances for migration were chosen. The stability and homogeneity of the migrants in the materials were tested and methods for the determination of the certification parameters were developed and validated. > From the 16 materials produced, the six most suitable CRM candidates (LDPE//Irganox 1076/Irgafos 168, LDPE//1,4-diphenyl-1,3-butadiene DPBD), HDPE//Chimassorb 81/Uvitex OB, PP homo//Irganox 1076/Irgafos 168, HIPS, 1% mineral oil//styrene, PA 6//caprolactam) were selected. The feasibility of CRM production for the six candidate materials was demonstrated and a trial certification exercise was performed with participation of all four partner laboratories. All six materials showed suitable properties for future production as certified reference materials.

Polythene terephthalate (PET) is frequently used as a packaging material for mineral water and other non-alcoholic beverages. PET contains detectable amounts of acetaldehyde, which is able to migrate to its packed product. An automated headspace gas chromatographic method for the determination of acetaldehyde has been developed and was used for the quantification of acetaldehyde in aqueous food products and their PET packages. A cold trap, mounted in the GC oven, between the auto sampler and analytical column was introduced as a new application. The detection limit of acetaldehyde was found to be 3 ng/ml with a standard deviation of 3%. The contents of acetaldehyde found in carbonated mineral water and lemonade ranged between 11 ng/ml and 7447 ng/ml, while the contents of acetaldehyde in the PET packages ranged from 1.1 microgram/g to 3.8 micrograms/g.

One of the phenomena in food packaging interactions is flavour absorption. Absorption of flavour compounds from food products into food-packaging materials can result in loss of flavour compounds or an unbalance in the flavour profile changing a product's quality. The food matrix influences the amounts of absorbed flavour compounds; the presence of oil or fat especially determines the ability to absorb flavour compounds from the food to the package. On the other hand, the polarity of the flavour compound itself is a characteristic that also influences the level of absorption into synthetic polymers. A model based on the effect of the polarity (log P) of flavour compounds and on their partitioning coefficients between the food (matrix) and the packaging material is described. The model can be used for predicting absorption of flavour compounds from foods into LLDPE. However, an attempt to apply the proposed model on real foods shows serious limitations of the model for (very) low fat products. Predictive values deviate from the measured values, probably due to other interaction phenomena, e.g. with proteins. Predictive and measured values from a product with a substantial amount of fat match much better, suggesting that the model is valid for products having a substantial amount of (free) fat.

The influence of flavour absorption by low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polycarbonate (PC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) on taste perception of a model solution containing seven flavour compounds and orange juice in glass bottles was studied with and without pieces of the respective plastic films after dark storage at 20 degrees C. Owing to absorption, the amount of flavour compounds in the model solution exposed to LDPE decreased substantially. From the model flavour solution valencene was almost completely absorbed by LDPE, followed to a lesser extent by decanal, hexyl acetate, octanal and nonanone. Less flavour compounds were absorbed from the model solution by PC and PET. In contrast to LDPE, valencene was absorbed in the lowest amounts and decanal in the highest. Limonene was readily absorbed from orange juice by LDPE, while myrcene, valencene, pinene and decanal were absorbed in smaller quantities. Only three flavour compounds were absorbed from orange juice by PC and PET in very small amounts: limonene, myrcene and decanal. Although the flavour content between controls and polymer-treated samples differed substantially, the loss of flavour compounds due to absorption by LDPE, PC and PET did not influence taste perception of a model solution and orange juice significantly up to 29 days of dark storage at 20 degrees C as determined by triangular taste panel tests.

The migration of laurolactam and cyclic di- and trimer of nylon 12 was assessed using three different films and five food simulants (olive oil, isooctane, 95% ethanol, 50% ethanol, water). Substitute test conditions for migration into olive oil according to European Union Directive EC/97/48 were applied using 95% ethanol and isooctane. Results showed that 95% ethanol overestimated while isooctane underestimated the respective migration into olive oil. Water was the best olive oil substitute, as migration of laurolactam into water and olive oil using the same temperature gave similar results. Additionally, diffusion kinetics of laurolactam were investigated by migration kinetic studies using isooctane and olive oil. Diffusion coefficients determined with isooctane were significantly higher than those found using olive oil. It was proved that isooctane had an interaction and olive oil was inert to the polymer. The diffusion conductance parameter, A(p), for nylon 12 determined using olive oil ranged from 0.3 to 0.6.

Analytical methods for the determination of laurolactam--the monomer of nylon 12--as well as the cyclic dimer and trimer were established. High performance liquid chromatography using ultraviolet (HPLC-UV) and mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-MS) were both found suitable to identify and quantify monomer, cyclic dimer and trimer well below the specific migration limit (SML) of laurolactam, being 5 mg/kg of food (simulant). Gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID) showed to be an appropriate method for the detection of only laurolactam in aqueous and fatty food simulants. Food simulants could be analysed directly by all three methods, or after a change of solvents. For olive oil, a method for sample clean-up by size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) was established.

Three methods widely employed in the evaluation of antioxidant activity, namely 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method, static headspace gas chromatography (HS-GC) and β-carotene bleaching test (BCBT), have been compared with regard to their application in the screening of plant extracts. The strengths and limitations of each method have been illustrated by testing a number of extracts, of differing polarity, from plants of the genus Sideritis, and two known antioxidants (butylated hydroxytoluene and rosmarinic acid). The sample polarity was important for the exhibited activity in the BCBT and HS-GC methods but not for the DPPH method. The complex composition of the extracts and partition phenomena affected their activity in each assay. The value of the BCBT method appears to be limited to less polar samples. Although slow, the HS-GC method is preferable for assessing the antioxidant inhibitory properties on the formation of unwanted secondary volatile products. Being rapid, simple and independent of sample polarity, the DPPH method is very convenient for the quick screening of many samples for radical scavenging activity. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC), which modulates cell growth and differentiation, may play an important role in tumor growth. Cancer cells have dysfunctional GJIC, but it is not known whether GJIC is mechanistically involved in the carcinogenic and anti-carcinogenic effects of n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on colon tumor cells. Caco-2 cells were used as an in vitro model to study the effects of PUFAs on differentiated as well as undifferentiated human colon cells. The GJIC capacity of this cell line increased during spontaneous differentiation. However, no differential effects between n-6 and n-3 PUFAs on GJIC were observed. Short-term incubation with linoleic acid (18:2n-6), alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n-3), arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n-6), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3) did not influence GJIC, while long-term incubation (> 10 days) with linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid inhibited GJIC of these colon cells. Long-chain metabolites such as AA and EPA were not formed after incubation with linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, thus excluding the involvement of prostaglandins in the observed effects. Although the exact mechanism of GJIC inhibition is unclear, cytotoxicity probably mediated by lipid peroxidation products seems to be related, because incubation with more PUFAs (AA and EPA) completely abolished GJIC.

Extracts from aerial parts of sweet grass (Hierochloe odorata) were active DPPH free radical scavengers. The active compounds were detected in extract fractions using HPLC with on-line radical scavenging detection. After multistep fractionation of the extract, two new natural products possessing radical scavenging activity were isolated, and their structures were elucidated by NMR and MS. They were identified as 5,8-dihydroxybenzopyranone and 5-hydroxy-8-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-benzopyranone. Activities of the compounds isolated were tested by DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assays, and compared with the known natural antioxidant rosmarinic acid and Trolox. Keywords: Sweet grass; Hierochloe odorata; fractionation; identification; radical scavengers

The effect of flavour absorption on the oxygen permeability of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was studied using an isostatic continuous flow system. Polymer samples were exposed to a model solution containing limonene, hexyl acetate, nonanone and decanal at 40 degrees C. After exposure, one part of each sample was analysed for absorbed flavour compounds using a Large Volume Injection GC Ultrasonic 'in vial' extraction method, and from the other part, oxygen permeability was measured in a permeation cell at 25 degrees C. After 8 h of exposure, LDPE and PP samples showed a significant linear (R2 = 0.82 and 0.99) increase in oxygen permeability of 21 and 130%, respectively. Owing to swelling of the polymer samples resulting from flavour absorption, the structure of the polymeric network changed (i.e. opened) and consequently increased oxygen permeability. The oxygen permeability of exposed PC showed a significant linear (R2 = 0.78) decrease of 11% after 21 days. PC obviously did not swell like LDPE or PP. Therefore, it was suggested that absorbed flavour compounds occupied or blocked 'microcavities' through which normally oxygen is transported. Absorption of flavour compounds by PET did not affect the oxygen permeability of PET significantly.

The influence of oil and food components in real food products on the absorption of four flavour compounds (limonene, decanal, linalool and ethyl 2-methyl butyrate) into linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) was studied using a large volume injection GC in vial extraction method. Model food systems and real food products investigated included oil/water emulsions, oil/casein models, oil/pectin models, skim milk and whole milk. A small amount of oil (50 g l-1) had a major influence on the amount of flavour absorption. Because of solubilization of the more apolar flavour compounds limonene, decanal and linalool into the oily phase, only the remaining flavour compounds in the aqueous phase were available for absorption by LLDPE. After 14 days of exposure, absorption of limonene and decanal decreased by 97°and that of linalool by 86ÐDue to a salting out effect, absorption of the less apolar ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (E2MB) first increased with increasing oil concentration, but decreased at higher oil concentrations (>2.5 g l-1). Oil/casein and oil/pectin models showed that the more apolar flavour compounds were mainly dissolved in the oily phase and that the compounds present in the aqueous phase could interact with casein or pectin. Oil influenced the level of flavour absorption by LLDPE to a much greater extent than pectin or casein. However, the low amount of fat (1.11 g l-1) in skim milk had no influence on the absorption of flavour compounds. Only the proteins in skim milk (especially casein) decreased the absorption of limonene and decanal, because the fat was probably entrapped. Whole milk, which contained a higher concentration of (free) fat, suppressed the absorption of all flavour compounds by LLDPE to the same extent as was found for the oil model solutions. In general, absorption results from skim milk and whole milk were in good agreement with the results of the investigated model solutions containing individual food components.

The influence of oil and food components in real food products on the absorption of four flavour compounds (limonene, decanal, linalool and ethyl 2-methyl butyrate) into linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) was studied using a large volume injection GC in vial extraction method. Model food systems and real food products investigated included oil/water emulsions, oil/casein models, oil/pectin models, skim milk and whole milk. A small amount of oil (50 g l-1) had a major influence on the amount of flavour absorption. Because of solubilization of the more apolar flavour compounds limonene, decanal and linalool into the oily phase, only the remaining flavour compounds in the aqueous phase were available for absorption by LLDPE. After 14 days of exposure, absorption of limonene and decanal decreased by 97°and that of linalool by 86ÐDue to a salting out effect, absorption of the less apolar ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (E2MB) first increased with increasing oil concentration, but decreased at higher oil concentrations (>2.5 g l-1). Oil/casein and oil/pectin models showed that the more apolar flavour compounds were mainly dissolved in the oily phase and that the compounds present in the aqueous phase could interact with casein or pectin. Oil influenced the level of flavour absorption by LLDPE to a much greater extent than pectin or casein. However, the low amount of fat (1.11 g l-1) in skim milk had no influence on the absorption of flavour compounds. Only the proteins in skim milk (especially casein) decreased the absorption of limonene and decanal, because the fat was probably entrapped. Whole milk, which contained a higher concentration of (free) fat, suppressed the absorption of all flavour compounds by LLDPE to the same extent as was found for the oil model solutions. In general, absorption results from skim milk and whole milk were in good agreement with the results of the investigated model solutions containing individual food components.

An increasing demand for natural additives has shifted the attention from synthetic to natural antioxidants. The present work examines the potential of some aromatic herbs grown in Lithuania as a source of natural antioxidants: marjoram (Majorana hortensis Moench), catnip (Nepeta cataria L), oregano (Origanum vulgare L), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L), hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis L), anise hyssop (Lophantus anisatus Benth), and sage (Salvia officinalis L). Dried herb samples were submitted to extraction with supercritical CO2, acetone or methanol/water and hydrodistillation. Deodorised herb samples (after removal of essential oil) were also extracted with acetone. The antioxidant activity of these extracts, essential oils and dried deodorised aqueous extracts was assessed by the β-carotene bleaching test (diffusion and spectrophotometric methods). The highest yields of extracts were obtained using polar solvents. Thyme and sage acetone oleoresins showed high antioxidant activity in the tests performed and were regarded as the most promising sources. © 1998 SCI.

The polar fraction of virgin olive oil was separated into two main parts (A and B) using solid phase extraction. Analysis of individual components by RP-HPLC indicated that the part (A) contained only simple phenols and phenolic acids. Part (B) had a complex nature. The two parts tested for their antioxidant activity showed relatively high protection factors in safflower oil stored at 80°C. Part B was found to contribute more than part A to the stability of the oil. The antioxidant activity of both fractions was related to their content of total polyphenols and o-diphenols. Acidic and alkaline hydrolysis showed significant quantitative changes in the HPLC profiles indicating the presence of ether and ester bonds while high-performance anion exchange chromatography of sugars after hydrolysis gave evidence for the presence of only traces of glycosides. A first attempt to identify a characteristic chromatographic peak of part B by HPLC fractionation and mass spectrometry showed the presence of an ester of tyrosol most probably with a dicarboxylic acid. © 1997 SCI.