Investigation of Protein Denaturation and Textural Changes of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) During Simulated Cooking

The production of plant-based fish alternatives that look, feel, taste, and cook like real fish is critical for widespread consumer acceptance. Consequently, a thorough understanding of the properties of real fish is critical for the successful design of high-performance plant-based fish analogs. In this study, we investigated changes in the optical, mechanical, and water holding properties of Atlantic salmon during simulated cooking at different temperatures. Differential scanning calorimetry and diffusive wave spectroscopy exhibited characteristic peaks around 40 °C (myosin and collagen) and 72 °C (actin), which caused appreciable changes in the salmons’ physicochemical properties. The textural properties of salmon during simulated cooking were characterized using a dynamic shear rheometer and texture analyzer. Changes in color, cook loss, and surface area were related to the cooking temperature. This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between protein denaturation, protein aggregation, microstructural changes, and texture of real fish. This information will be useful for creating higher quality plant-based fish analogs.