Search Results (33)

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of Swiss chard powder (SCP) as a natural nitrite source on the volatile compounds and other qualitative properties of heat-treated sucuk (HTS). Three formulations were created for the production of HTS: control (no nitrite addition), synthetic nitrite (SN, 150 mg/kg NaNO₂ addition), and natural nitrite from Swiss chard powder (SCPN) (SCP equivalent to 150 mg/kg NaNO₂). The HTS production was carried out under controlled conditions. Physicochemical and microbiological properties of the HTS were investigated during the production stages. The final product was analyzed for volatile compounds, residual nitrite, and sensory properties. A higher mean pH value was found in the SCPN group in comparison with other groups (p < 0.05). In all production stages, the lowest a_w values were observed in the presence of SCPN (p < 0.05). The highest mean L* value was determined in the group with SN (p < 0.05). Groups containing SN or SCPN exhibited higher a* values compared to the control during fermentation, heat treatment, and drying. The SN group had the lowest TBARS value during all these stages (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the amount of residual nitrite between the SCPN and SN groups (p > 0.05). In terms of sensory parameters, nitrite groups (SCPN and SN) had higher values than the control group (p < 0.05). Lactic acid bacteria exhibited good growth during fermentation in all groups. Although SCP positively affected many volatile compounds, this effect was not strong enough to alter the sensory properties of the product. Correlation analysis of volatile compounds revealed that the control group was significantly different from the groups using SN or SCPN. Additionally, similar characteristics in volatile compounds and sensory attributes were observed in the SN and SCPN groups. As a result, characteristics of the final products were not usually adversely affected by the use of SCP in HTS production. Full article

Mangifera indica L. by-products obtained by three extraction methods from three cultivars (Keitt, Sensation and Gomera-3) were tested for their antibacterial properties against 20 bacterial species. These species were selected based on their relevance to winemaking processes (Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and Gluconacetobacter), fermented meat products (Staphylococcus) and human diseases (Pseudomonas, Escherichia, Shigella and Klebsiella). All mango by-product extracts showed antimicrobial activity in agar diffusion and broth microdilution experiments. However, differences in antimicrobial activity against acetic acid bacteria were detected between the peel extracts obtained from the two extraction processes. Furthermore, a wide range of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) data were found; Staphylococcus spp. (10 species) showed MICs between 1.0–240 mgGAE/mL and Acetobacter spp. (4 species) showed MICs between 1.7 and 200 mgGAE/mL. The most sensitive bacteria belonged to the staphylococcal species (MIC: 1 mgGAE/mL) and the most resistant was Gluconacetobacter saccharivorans (MIC > 400 mgGAE/mL). In general, there was no significant correlation between the phenolic compounds identified and the MIC values. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) revealed that the mango extracts had a bacteriostatic effect. A simple and reliable method for the determination of MIC and MBC in microdilution assays with acetic acid bacteria was described. These results highlight the antibacterial properties of mango by-products against species associated with food spoilage microorganisms and human diseases. Full article

The metabolic activity of fermentative microorganisms plays a critical role in determining the flavor profile of fermented meat products. Modulating carbon and nitrogen sources represents a promising strategy for enhancing product quality. In this study, Debaryomyces hansenii strains isolated from dry-cured ham were assessed in a sterile sausage model to evaluate the effects of different carbon sources (sucrose, corn starch) and nitrogen sources (leucine, soy protein isolate) on colony growth, enzyme activity, and physicochemical properties. These nutritional factors significantly affected the fermentation performance of D. hansenii. Corn starch and soy protein isolate increased colony count by 14.94% and 90%, respectively, and enhanced protease activity by 2-fold and 4.5-fold. Both treatments maintained high lipase activity (>50 U/g). Both supplements improved the water-holding capacity and decreased the water activity. Carbon sources reduced the medium pH, whereas nitrogen sources contributed to the maintenance of pH stability. A further analysis indicated that corn starch promoted the accumulation of aldehydes and ketones, which intensified the sourness and suppressed the saltiness. In contrast, soy protein isolate increased the abundance of free amino acids associated with umami and sweetness, and stimulated the formation of esters, ketones, and pyrazines, thereby enhancing flavor richness and umami intensity. Both ingredients also reduced saturated fatty acid levels and increased the unsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio. Soy protein isolate exhibited a more pronounced effect on D. hansenii fermentation. This study provides a technical reference for enhancing the flavor characteristics of fermented meat products via the adjustment of carbon and nitrogen sources to regulate D. hansenii fermentation. Full article

Autochthonous microorganisms play critical roles in shaping the quality of Chinese sausages and may be influenced by local climate and/or processing conditions. The present study aimed to reveal the interprovincial differences in microbial community between Sichuan and Guizhou sausages, as well as driving factors based on high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. The results indicated that Cobetia, Debaryomycetaceae, Kurtzmaniella, and Candida zeylanoides served as biomarkers for Sichuan sausages. In contrast, Enterococcus, unclassified Cyanobacteriales, Lactobacillales, Aspergillus vitricola, Mortierella, Fusarium, and Penicillium were identified as biomarkers for Guizhou sausages. Furthermore, salt content and moisture level showed positive correlations with Cobetia, Staphylococcus, Debaryomyces, and Kurtzmaniella, mainly found in Sichuan sausages. Conversely, pH and water activity (Aw) were positively associated with potential pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Vibrio, Cyanobacteria, Enterococcus, and Aeromonas) and fungi (e.g., Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium), which were mainly distributed in Guizhou sausages. Notably, microbial composition discrepancies between Sichuan and Guizhou sausages were primarily driven by processing conditions rather than regional climate factors. Collectively, these findings provide valuable insight for developing novel specific starters. Full article

The aim of the study was to use a commonly employed technology in the meat industry, the inoculation of a biocontrol starter, in the processing of a plant-based fermented dry-cured sausage analog to improve its safety against possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Challenge tests were used to select suitable lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for the analog under industrial production conditions. First, 20 LAB strains were tested in vitro and five of them were further tested by stuffing the ingredients under industrial conditions. The L. monocytogenes counts highlighted Latilactobacillus sakei 205 as the most protective one, achieving a reduction of 2.6 log CFU/g. Further, a triangular test and Check-All-That-Apply test were performed to understand the organoleptic differences that could be expected in the final product. The batch inoculated with Llb. sakei 205 did not show any sensory differences from the commercial batch. Therefore, Llb. sakei 205 was identified as a potential protective starter due to the microbiological and sensory results. This pioneering study applied biocontrol starters to plant-based meat analogs, aligning with clean-label trends. Full article

The increasing demand for sustainable and nutritionally rich protein sources has led to a growing interest in edible insects as a viable alternative to traditional meat. This study evaluates the potential of mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) flour as a partial meat replacer in the formulation of dry fermented sausages (salchichón). Four formulations were prepared, replacing 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of pork meat with mealworm flour, and their microbiological, physicochemical, rheological, technological, and sensory properties were analyzed. Results showed that the incorporation of mealworm flour did not compromise the growth of lactic acid bacteria or Gram-positive catalase-positive cocci, both essential for fermentation and curing. The inclusion of mealworm flour significantly increased the protein, fiber, and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of the sausages, improving their nutritional profile. Notably, despite the higher PUFA content, lipid oxidation was reduced, as evidenced by lower concentrations of oxidation-derived volatile compounds. Significant changes were also observed in color, particularly at higher replacement levels, which resulted in a noticeable darkening of the sausages. Sensory evaluation indicated that replacing up to 5% of pork meat maintained product acceptability, whereas higher levels caused significant changes. The partial replacement of pork by mealworm flour shows interesting possibilities to produce more sustainable and functional dry fermented meats. Full article

Volatile chemicals containing nitrogen and sulfur as key odors in dry-cured meat products have extremely low odor thresholds. These compounds play an important part in the overall uniqueness and characteristic flavor of dry-cured meat products, contributing to savory and toasted aroma sensations, respectively. In this review, we define the different volatiles and aroma compounds related to the flavor of dry-cured meat products. Moreover, the main differences regarding volatiles, aromas, and flavor profiles from non-fermented and fermented dry-cured meat products are summarized. Comparisons using the same volatile extraction techniques revealed that dry loins contained the most sulfur- and nitrogen-containing compounds, while complex flavor and aroma compounds in fermented sausages were greatly impacted by the fermentation process. The screening and quantification of savory and toasted odors showed that methionol, dimethyl sulfide, and 2-methyl-3-(methylthio)furan were mainly reported in non-fermented products, whereas pyrazines were mainly detected in fermented meat products. Finally, the different mechanisms in the generation of savory and toasted aromas, including chemical reactions and biochemical reactions by microorganisms (bacteria, yeast, and molds), are discussed. These discussions will help to better understand the complex flavor of dry-cured meat products. Full article

There is a growing interest in the preservation of indigenous pig breeds, as they serve as a valuable genetic reserve. Pork meat products are widely consumed due to their desirable flavor, which is largely influenced by their chemical composition and the production processes employed. The aim of this study was to characterize and compare the nutritional composition, mineral content, and fatty acid profile of meat products derived from indigenous Croatian pig breeds. Three types of meat products, including bacon, dry-cured ham, and dry-fermented sausages, originating from the Turopolje pig, Black Slavonian pig, and Banijska šara, were collected and analyzed for proximate composition, fatty acid profile, and mineral content. Concerning the proximate analysis, statistically significant differences were found in the water and fat content in bacon and dry-fermented sausages, while the mineral analysis revealed differences in iron content. The fatty acid profile of the tested products was found to be in accordance with previously reported data. The results indicated similarities in chemical composition, mineral content, and fatty acid profile between meat products from different pig breeds; however, performing PCA analysis revealed that the major influence on product and breed characterization could be attributed to differences in fatty acid composition. Full article

As more and more consumers are becoming conscious of the safety and taste of meat products, the use of natural additives and innovative processing techniques has gained significant attention. Naturally fermented fruit vinegar is rich in organic acids and antioxidant phenolic compounds. In addition, it contains amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and provitamin beta-carotene, and the presence of acetic acid bacteria may have a positive effect on consumer health. The study aimed to assess the impact of different concentrations of apple vinegar addition on the quality of cooked sausage, focusing on physicochemical parameters, including fatty acid profile and oxidative stability, as well as microbiological quality and sensory changes after production and during chilling storage. Four variants of sausage were prepared: C—sausage without apple vinegar; V1—sausage with 1% of apple vinegar; V3—sausage with 3% of apple vinegar; and V5—sausage with 5% of apple vinegar. All of the tests were carried out after production, as well as after 7 and 14 days of refrigeration storage. The addition of apple vinegar decreased the pH value and increased the oxidation-reduction potential and lipid oxidation in the samples V1, V3, and V5. The sausage with the 5% addition of apple vinegar (V5) was characterized by significantly more intensive brightness (parameter L* = 54.67) in comparison to the C sample (parameter L* = 52.78). The sausages that were tested showed good microbiological quality concerning the total number of microorganisms, lactic acid bacteria, and the absence of pathogenic bacteria. The addition of apple vinegar contributed to the reduction in the intensity of the cured meat flavor and the fatty flavor. Therefore, according to the results presented in this work, it can be concluded that 3% of vinegar is the optimal addition, which may be used in the next step of investigation, taking into account color formation abilities as well as microbiological quality and lipid oxidation processes. Full article

In some countries, yeasts are still not allowed in the production of commercially fermented sausages. Therefore, further research is needed on producing fermented meat products using different strains of yeasts. In this study, two strains of Debaryomyces hansenii (D. hansenii Y61 and Y67) were inoculated in fermented sausages to study their effects as starter cultures. The inoculation of D. hansenii strains affected ripening by decreasing the pH and a_w. The sausages inoculated with Y61 and Y67 exhibited decreases in lipid oxidation of 40.70% and 36.04%, respectively, and Enterobacteriaceae counts of 50% and 100%, respectively. The inoculating yeasts Y61 and Y67 increased the lightness (L*) and redness (a*) of fermented sausages. The D. hansenii-inoculated sausages had higher levels of free amino acids and fatty acids, which improved the digestibility, sensory value, and safety of these sausages. Moreover, the total amount of ester compounds increased by 87.14% and 83.31% in the Y61- and Y67-inoculated groups, respectively, which contributed to the aroma. Better sensory attributes were also found in the sausages inoculated with Y61 and Y67 D. hansenii. Native D. hansenii Y61 and Y67 are, therefore, good starter cultures for fermented sausage production. Together, the results provide data supporting future research and the use of yeast-fermented sausages. Full article

This study examined the safety of meat products from north Serbia (Vojvodina), smoked in traditional conditions, from a PAH point of view, and assessed the possibility of their reduction in these types of products. Samples of dry cured meat products, bacons and dry fermented sausages smoked in six different chambers on the territory of Vojvodina were examined. The contents of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, from the United States Environmental Protection Agency list (16 US-EPA PAHs), and sensory quality of meat products were determined. The total content of 16 US-EPA PAHs in dry cured meat products was in the range from 99.73 μg/kg to 412.76 μg/kg; in bacons it was in the range from 36.43 μg/kg to 188.86 μg/kg; and in dry fermented sausages in the range from 47.23 μg/kg to 270.60 μg/kg. The lowest contents of 16 US-EPA PAHs compounds were determined in meat products smoked in traditional conditions during 3–5 days (3–4 h per day) at a distance of 2.5 m between the fire and products. Generally, it can be concluded that shortening of smoking process is justified, because products of good sensory quality and with decreased content of PAHs compounds were obtained. Benzo[a]pyrene, whose maximum allowed content in smoked meat products is 2 μg/kg, was below the limit of detection in all examined traditional meat products from Vojvodina. Also, contents of PAH4, sum of benz[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[a]pyrene and benzo[b]fluoranthene, were in the range from ND to 2.22 μg/kg, still greatly lower than the set maximum value. These results indicated the safety of dry cured meat products, bacons and dry fermented sausages from the territory of north Serbia (Vojvodina), as defined by EU Regulation 2023/915 criteria for PAHs contents. Full article

A review of the published quantitative risk assessment (QRA) models of L. monocytogenes in meat and meat products was performed, with the objective of appraising the intervention strategies deemed suitable for implementation along the food chain as well as their relative effectiveness. A systematic review retrieved 23 QRA models; most of them (87%) focused on ready-to-eat meat products and the majority (78%) also covered short supply chains (end processing/retail to consumption, or consumption only). The processing-to-table scope was the choice of models for processed meats such as chorizo, bulk-cooked meat, fermented sausage and dry-cured pork, in which the effects of processing were simulated. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated the importance of obtaining accurate estimates for lag time, growth rate and maximum microbial density, in particular when affected by growth inhibitors and lactic acid bacteria. In the case of deli meats, QRA models showed that delicatessen meats sliced at retail were associated with a higher risk of listeriosis than manufacture pre-packed deli meats. Many models converged on the fact that (1) controlling cold storage temperature led to greater reductions in the final risk than decreasing the time to consumption and, furthermore, that (2) lower numbers and less prevalence of L. monocytogenes at the end of processing were far more effective than keeping low temperatures and/or short times during retail and/or home storage. Therefore, future listeriosis QRA models for meat products should encompass a processing module in order to assess the intervention strategies that lead to lower numbers and prevalence, such as the use of bio-preservation and novel technologies. Future models should be built upon accurate microbial kinetic parameters, and should realistically represent cross-contamination events along the food chain. Full article

Fermentation of meat products refers to a series of physical, biological or chemical changes in raw meat that occurs under the actions of enzymes or via microbial fermentation and results in the formation of meat products with special flavours, colours and textures that have a long history in China. These products have a unique fermented flavour, bright colour and longer shelf life than ordinary meat products, and some have proteins that are more easily absorbed by the body due to the fermentation of beneficial bacteria. Flavour development in meat products is a dynamic process. During the processing and storage of fermented meat products, the breakdown of proteins and fats is accelerated due to the addition of different fermenting agents. Moreover, the physicochemical reactions that occur within the meat products and the actions of microorganisms during the fermentation process result in the production of flavour compounds, which will determine the final flavour characteristics of the fermented meat product. This paper reviews the flavour characteristics of Chinese dry-cured hams, sausages, bacon, cured fish and sour meat and analyses the flavour substance composition of various products. Due to the differences in the raw materials, processes, auxiliary materials and fermentation processes of various types of fermented meat products in China (ham, sausage, bacon, etc.), the flavour substances contained in the various types of fermented meat products in China are different from each other. However, most fermented meat products in China are cured and fermented, and therefore, they share similarities in terms of their flavour substance composition. The flavour substances in fermented meat products mainly include alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, acids, phenols and aromatic hydrocarbons. The study of such flavour characteristics is of great significance in fermented meat product quality, and provides certain theoretical references for the study of domestic fermented meat products. Full article

Traditional spontaneously fermented foods are well known for their sensory and safety properties, which is mainly due to their indigenous microflora. Within this group of food, Mediterranean dry-cured sausages stand out as a significant source of lactic-acid bacterial strains (LAB) with biotechnological properties, such as their antimicrobial activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the biodiversity of antagonistic LAB strains from different Andalusian traditional sausages, such as salchichón and chorizo. First, a screening was carried out focusing on the antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogens, such as Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens, and Staphylococcus aureus, selecting two strains due to their higher antibiosis properties, both in agar and liquid media. These bacteria were identified as Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum BPF2 and Pediococcus acidilactici ST6. In addition, genomic studies confirmed the presence of certain structural genes related to the production of bacteriocins. Finally, the culture supernatants of both strains were purified and analyzed by LC-MS/MS, obtaining the relative molecular mass and the amino acid sequence and identifying the peptides as the bacteriocins Pediocin-PA and Leucocin K. In conclusion, genomes and antimicrobial substances of P. acidilactici ST6, a Pediocin-PA producer, and Lpb. paraplantarum BPF2, a Leucocin K producer, isolated from Andalusian salchichón and chorizo, respectively, are presented in this work. Although further studies are required, these strains could be used alone or in combination as starters or protective cultures for the food industry. Full article

Background: In this work, the effect of a selected starter culture of Lactilactobacillus sakei 205 on the evolution of volatile compounds throughout the ripening process and on the final sensorial characteristics of traditional dry-cured fermented “salchichón” was evaluated. Methods: “Salchichón” sausages were prepared, inoculated with L. sakei 205, and ripened for 90 days. Volatile compounds were analyzed throughout the ripening by GC-MS. In the final product, instrumental texture and color were determined. In addition, sensorial analysis was performed by a semi-trained panel. Results: The inoculation of L. sakei 205 does not influence the texture and color parameters of ripened “salchichón”. However, an increase in volatile compounds derived from amino acid catabolism and microbial esterification and a decrease in compounds derived from lipid oxidation, mainly hexanal, were observed throughout the ripening time as a consequence of L. sakei inoculation, which could have a positive effect on the flavor development of the dry-cured fermented “salchichón”. Conclusions: The use of selected strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as L. sakei 205 as a protective culture could be recommended to improve the quality of traditional “salchichón”. Full article