Sensory quality of emulsions prepared with the seaweed Ulva spp. or a derived protein ingredient

The sensory quality of seaweed, whether as a whole biomass or as a protein ingredient, plays a crucial role in its successful commercialization. This study explored the effect of different Ulva species, biomass washing, and pH-shift-based protein extraction on the sensory quality of emulsions with 0, 5, and 10 % oil. A trained panel assessed the sensory profile, complemented by analyses of volatile compounds, total ash, and amino acids. Saltiness emerged as the primary distinction between emulsions with unwashed U. linza and U. fenestrata, due to higher ash in the former. Washing U. fenestrata retained sensory qualities despite reduced ash and increased content of the lipid oxidation-marker pentanal. Protein extraction up-concentrated total amino acids 2.9-fold, and yielded emulsions with reduced particle sensation and grassy flavor, while bitterness, sourness, dark color, pentanal, hexanal, and 2-ethylfuran increased. Increased oil content of emulsions lowered their grassy odor which correlated with reduced hexanal content. Overall, these findings can contribute to the development of food products containing seaweed or protein ingredients thereof that match consumer preferences.