Topic Editors

Departament of Food Quality and Safety Management, Poznan University Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, PL-60642 Poznan, Poland
Dr. Constantinos G. Tsiafoulis
1. NMR Centre, Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Departament of Chemistry, University of Ioannina, Greece
2. School of Natural Sciences and Technology, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece

Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages

Abstract submission deadline
closed (30 November 2024)
Manuscript submission deadline
31 January 2025
Viewed by
22261

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Topic, entitled “Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages", offers a forum for the rapid publication of original articles and reviews on food analysis, with a special emphasis on new challenges and trends. Currently, techniques such as liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, and capillary electrophoresis are essential to the characterization, classification, and authentication of a wide range of agri-food products.

Moreover, among the spectroscopic techniques and methods employed, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (NMR), through a plethora of methods (among them the recently introduced NMR spin chromatography or the diffusion-ordered spectroscopy), has also enriched and enhanced the above-mentioned goals. NMR techniques in combination with multivariate data analysis have strongly contributed to the expansion of the -omics approach in foods, namely foodomics.

Beyond these well-established options, research detailing new instrumental techniques, such as ion mobility spectrometry and microchip-based devices, novel NMR methods and benchtop NMR, will also be welcome.

Dr. Anna M. Kaczmarek
Dr. Constantinos G. Tsiafoulis
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • food
  • beverages
  • chromatography
  • separations
  • capillary electrophoresis
  • foodomics
  • nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Beverages
beverages
3.0 6.1 2015 20.6 Days CHF 1600 Submit
Foods
foods
4.7 7.4 2012 14.3 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Molecules
molecules
4.2 7.4 1996 15.1 Days CHF 2700 Submit
Nutrients
nutrients
4.8 9.2 2009 17.5 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Separations
separations
2.5 3.0 2014 12.4 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Chemosensors
chemosensors
3.7 5.0 2013 17.1 Days CHF 2700 Submit

Preprints.org is a multidiscipline platform providing preprint service that is dedicated to sharing your research from the start and empowering your research journey.

MDPI Topics is cooperating with Preprints.org and has built a direct connection between MDPI journals and Preprints.org. Authors are encouraged to enjoy the benefits by posting a preprint at Preprints.org prior to publication:

  1. Immediately share your ideas ahead of publication and establish your research priority;
  2. Protect your idea from being stolen with this time-stamped preprint article;
  3. Enhance the exposure and impact of your research;
  4. Receive feedback from your peers in advance;
  5. Have it indexed in Web of Science (Preprint Citation Index), Google Scholar, Crossref, SHARE, PrePubMed, Scilit and Europe PMC.

Published Papers (17 papers)

Order results
Result details
Journals
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
18 pages, 3877 KiB  
Article
Changes in the Profile of Phenolic Compounds and in the Antioxidant, Hypoglycemic, and Antidiabetic Activities of a Beverage Based on Sesame By-Product Caused by the Simulated Gastrointestinal Digestion Process
by Jonhatan Carrasco-Chávez, María Fernanda Quintero-Soto, Rosalio Velarde-Barraza, Ignacio Alfredo Rivero-Espejel, Ismael Díaz-Peña, Martha Elena Vázquez-Ontiveros, Ramona Julieta Espinoza-Moreno, Luz Adriana Ontiveros-García, Jesús Mateo Amillano-Cisneros, Janitzio Xiomara K. Perales-Sánchez, Oscar Daniel Argüelles-López, Fernando Salas-López and Jennifer Vianey Félix-Medina
Beverages 2024, 10(4), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10040115 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 435
Abstract
The by-product of extracting oil from sesame has good functional properties for use in the development of new food products. In this study, the effect of simulated gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds, as well as the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and hypoglycemic [...] Read more.
The by-product of extracting oil from sesame has good functional properties for use in the development of new food products. In this study, the effect of simulated gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds, as well as the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and hypoglycemic properties of a beverage from sesame by-products was analyzed. Oral digestion significantly decreased the total phenolic content of the beverage, while the total flavonoid content increased. Both phytochemicals increased after gastric and intestinal digestion. Twenty-five phenolic compounds were characterized in the sesame by-product beverage, including feruloylquinic acid, which was present in all the digestive fractions analyzed. The most abundant free phenolic was quercetin, which was also present in all the digested fractions. On the other hand, the most abundant phenolic in the digested fractions was isorhamnetin. During gastrointestinal digestion, the antioxidant activity and inhibitory effects on the α-glucosidase and DPP-IV of the beverage significantly improved, while the ability to inhibit the α-amylase significantly increased during oral digestion, remaining constant throughout digestion. Correlation analysis indicated that flavonoids, including quercetin, may be the compounds with the greatest effect on the evaluated activities. The results of this study not only improve the understanding of the impact of gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds but also suggest potential applications in formulating functional foods with enhanced antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and antidiabetic properties, contributing to the development of health-promoting food products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 2366 KiB  
Article
The Consumption of Non-Sugar Sweetened and Ready-to-Drink Beverages as Emerging Types of Beverages in Shanghai
by Zhengyuan Wang, Liping Shen, Jinpeng Ning, Zhuo Sun, Yiwen Xu, Zehuan Shi, Qi Song, Wei Lu, Wenqing Ma, Shupeng Mai and Jiajie Zang
Nutrients 2024, 16(20), 3547; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16203547 - 19 Oct 2024
Viewed by 803
Abstract
Background: The Chinese beverage industry is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the popularity of non-sugar sweetened beverages (NSSs) and ready-to-drink beverages (RSBs). This study aimed to assess current consumption patterns and determinants of various beverage types among retail visitors. Methods: A total of [...] Read more.
Background: The Chinese beverage industry is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the popularity of non-sugar sweetened beverages (NSSs) and ready-to-drink beverages (RSBs). This study aimed to assess current consumption patterns and determinants of various beverage types among retail visitors. Methods: A total of 44 observation points, including 22 supermarkets and 22 convenience stores, were randomly selected across Shanghai. At each location, at least 100 individuals were recruited to participate. Data were collected using an electronic self-administered questionnaire. Results: The consumption rates of total beverages, sugar-sweetened beverages, NSSs, and RSBs were 57.70%, 56.94%, 19.60%, and 29.50%, respectively; the median consumption amounts among the drinking population were 162.57 mL/day, 137.98 mL/day, 32.85 mL/day, and 32.85 mL/day, respectively. The consumption proportions of NSSs and RSBs ranked 2nd and 3rd. The multifactorial analyses showed that people aged 6–18 years consumed more beverages (p < 0.05). Males were more likely to consume sugar-sweetened beverages and NSSs, but females were more likely to consume RSBs (p < 0.05). Higher educated people and bachelors were more likely to consume beverages (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The emerging beverage categories, NSSs and RSBs, warrant attention due to their significant consumption rates. Tailored intervention strategies should be considered for demographic groups varying by age, gender, and educational attainment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2784 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers for Selective Extraction of Protocatechuic Acid from Mango Juice
by Liping Zhang, Xin Song, Yuxiao Dong and Xiyan Zhao
Foods 2024, 13(18), 2955; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13182955 - 18 Sep 2024
Viewed by 701
Abstract
A novel and environmentally friendly molecularly imprinted polymer (PCA-MIP) was successfully synthesized in an aqueous solution for the selective extraction of protocatechuic acid (PCA). In this study, a deep eutectic solvent (DES, choline chloride/methacrylic acid, 1:2, mol/mol) and chitosan were employed as the [...] Read more.
A novel and environmentally friendly molecularly imprinted polymer (PCA-MIP) was successfully synthesized in an aqueous solution for the selective extraction of protocatechuic acid (PCA). In this study, a deep eutectic solvent (DES, choline chloride/methacrylic acid, 1:2, mol/mol) and chitosan were employed as the eco-friendly functional monomers. These two components interacted with PCA through hydrogen bonding, integrating a multitude of recognition sites within the PCA-MIP. Thus, the resulting PCA-MIP exhibited outstanding adsorption performance, rapid adsorption rate, and better selectivity, with a maximum binding capacity of 30.56 mg/g and an equilibrium time of 30 min. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses revealed that the synthesized polymers possessed a uniform morphology and substantial surface areas, which were conducive to their adsorption properties. Moreover, the PCA-MIP integrated with HPLC demonstrated its efficacy as an adsorbent for the selective extraction of PCA from mango juice. The PCA-MIP presented itself as an exemplary adsorbent, offering a highly effective and eco-friendly method for the enrichment of PCA from complex matrices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1492 KiB  
Article
Rapid Tryptophan Assay as a Screening Procedure for Quality Protein Maize
by Gabi Drochioiu, Elena Mihalcea, Jeanclaude Lagobo and Catalina-Ionica Ciobanu
Molecules 2024, 29(18), 4341; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29184341 - 12 Sep 2024
Viewed by 855
Abstract
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid deficient in cereals, especially maize. However, maize (Zea mays L.) is the main source of protein in some developing countries in Africa and Latin America. In general, the nutritional profile of cereals is poor, because they [...] Read more.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid deficient in cereals, especially maize. However, maize (Zea mays L.) is the main source of protein in some developing countries in Africa and Latin America. In general, the nutritional profile of cereals is poor, because they are deficient in essential amino acids such as tryptophan and lysine due to a relatively higher proportion of alcohol-soluble proteins. Quality protein maize (QPM) has been developed through genetic manipulation for the nutritional enrichment of maize to address these problems. Nevertheless, methods for protein, lysine and tryptophan are time-consuming and require relatively large amounts of samples. Therefore, we have advanced here a simple, cheap, fast, reliable and robust procedure for the determination of protein and tryptophan in the same biuret supernatant, which can also be used for chemical characterization of other cereals. Samples of 50 mg maize ground to pass through a 0.1 mm screen were sonicated for 5 min. in eppendorf vials with 1.5 mL of a biuret reagent each. After centrifugation and protein determination by biuret, 0.2 mL of supernatant was treated with 0.8 mL of a tryptophan reagent. Both total protein and tryptophan can be determined in microplates at 560 nm to speed up the measurements. The main advantage of the new micro-method is the rapid estimation of the nutrient quality of maize samples by a single weighing of a small amount of valuable plant materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 487 KiB  
Perspective
Soil Microbial Communities and Wine Terroir: Research Gaps and Data Needs
by Gabriela Crystal Franco, Jasmine Leiva, Sanjiev Nand, Danica Marvi Lee, Michael Hajkowski, Katherine Dick, Brennan Withers, LuzMaria Soto, Benjamin-Rafael Mingoa, Michael Acholonu, Amari Hutchins, Lucy Neely and Archana Anand
Foods 2024, 13(16), 2475; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13162475 - 6 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1637
Abstract
Microbes found in soil can have a significant impact on the taste and quality of wine, also referred to as wine terroir. To date, wine terroir has been thought to be associated with the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil. However, there [...] Read more.
Microbes found in soil can have a significant impact on the taste and quality of wine, also referred to as wine terroir. To date, wine terroir has been thought to be associated with the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil. However, there is a fragmented understanding of the contribution of vineyard soil microbes to wine terroir. Additionally, vineyards can play an important role in carbon sequestration since the promotion of healthy soil and microbial communities directly impacts greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. We review 24 studies that explore the role of soil microbial communities in vineyards and their influence on grapevine health, grape composition, and wine quality. Studies spanning 2015 to 2018 laid a foundation by exploring soil microbial biogeography in vineyards, vineyard management effects, and the reservoir function of soil microbes for grape-associated microbiota. On the other hand, studies spanning 2019 to 2023 appear to have a more specific and targeted approach, delving into the relationships between soil microbes and grape metabolites, the microbial distribution at different soil depths, and microbial influences on wine flavor and composition. Next, we identify research gaps and make recommendations for future work. Specifically, most of the studies utilize targeted sequencing (16S, 26S, ITS), which only reveals community composition. Utilizing high-throughput omics approaches such as shotgun sequencing (to infer function) and transcriptomics (for actual function) is vital to determining the specific mechanisms by which soil microbes influence grape chemistry. Going forward, understanding the long-term effects of vineyard management practices and climate change on soil microbiology, grapevine trunk diseases, and the role of bacteriophages in vineyard soil and wine-making would be a fruitful investigation. Overall, the studies presented shed light on the importance of soil microbiomes and their interactions with grapevines in shaping wine production. However, there are still many aspects of this complex ecosystem that require further exploration and understanding to support sustainable viticulture and enhance wine quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1392 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Impact of the Ripening Stage on the Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Fruits from Organically Grown Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Spanish Varieties
by Ivan Cruz-Chamorro, Guillermo Santos-Sánchez, Franz Martín, María-Soledad Fernández-Pachón, Dámaso Hornero-Méndez and Isabel Cerrillo
Foods 2024, 13(15), 2337; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13152337 - 25 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 845
Abstract
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a widely cultivated horticultural crop. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is known for its high concentration of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. The Mediterranean countries, including Italy, Spain, and [...] Read more.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a widely cultivated horticultural crop. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is known for its high concentration of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. The Mediterranean countries, including Italy, Spain, and Greece, have a diverse range of tomato landraces. Assessing the nutritional and bioactive composition of different tomato varieties and their ripening stages is crucial to determine their suitability for the market. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ripening on nutritional composition (including carotenoids and polyphenols content) and antioxidant activities of fruits of three specific tomato varieties grown in Spain: Josefina and Karelya, which are cherry-like tomatoes, and Muchamiel, a type of salad tomato. In addition to evaluating their characteristics and composition (including carotenoids and polyphenol content), the antioxidant activities of these varieties at three different ripening stages were quantified. As expected, the results reveal that, as the tomatoes matured, their antioxidant capacity increased along with higher levels of carotenoids and polyphenols. Interestingly, cherry-like tomatoes showed a higher antioxidant activity than the salad tomatoes. This investigation emphasizes the role of fruit ripening in increasing carotenoid levels, which contribute to the antioxidant activity of three tomato varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1042 KiB  
Article
Analyzing the Effects of Rapid and Natural Cooling Techniques on the Quality of Hand-Shaken Green Tea Beverages
by Yuan-Ke Chen, Tuzz-Ying Song, Chi-Yu Chang, Shiann-Cherng Sheu and Chih-Wei Chen
Foods 2024, 13(15), 2322; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13152322 - 24 Jul 2024
Viewed by 914
Abstract
This study compared the quality of hand-shaken green tea prepared through rapid and natural cooling methods. Cooling is crucial in preserving green tea’s flavor, aroma, and nutritional components. In the rapid cooling method, green tea is freshly brewed at an initial temperature of [...] Read more.
This study compared the quality of hand-shaken green tea prepared through rapid and natural cooling methods. Cooling is crucial in preserving green tea’s flavor, aroma, and nutritional components. In the rapid cooling method, green tea is freshly brewed at an initial temperature of 95 °C for 25 min, and then rapidly cooled to 18 °C for 25 min. Conversely, the natural cooling method involves brewing tea at the same initial temperature and time, but allowing it to cool gradually to 30 °C over approximately 4–5 h at room temperature. This study’s findings indicate that the rapid cooling method produced green tea with a more vibrant color and improved clarity versus the natural cooling method. Sensory analysis revealed that the taste and aroma of the hand-shaken green tea prepared using rapid cooling were perceived to be more refreshing and invigorating. However, the natural cooling method preserved a higher level of chemical components, including individual catechin caffeine, total polyphenol, soluble solids, reducing sugar, and total tannins. The essential amino acid content of the rapidly and naturally cooled green tea infusions was 6.85 and 13.55 μg/mL, respectively. The γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) content was 439.82 and 457.31 μg/mL, respectively. This study’s findings suggest that rapid cooling during the preparation of hand-shaken green tea enhances its overall quality. The vibrant color, improved clarity, refreshing taste, and invigorating aroma make it a preferable choice for tea enthusiasts who seek an enhanced sensory experience and excellent quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 573 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Water Intake among Chinese Toddlers: The Report of a Survey
by Yiding Zhuang, Zhencheng Xie, Minghan Fu, Hongliang Luo, Yitong Li, Ye Ding and Zhixu Wang
Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 2012; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132012 - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1216
Abstract
Toddlerhood (aged 13~36 months) is a period of dietary transition, with water intake being significantly influenced by parental feeding patterns, cultural traditions, and the availability of beverages and food. Nevertheless, given the lack of applicable data, it is challenging to guide and evaluate [...] Read more.
Toddlerhood (aged 13~36 months) is a period of dietary transition, with water intake being significantly influenced by parental feeding patterns, cultural traditions, and the availability of beverages and food. Nevertheless, given the lack of applicable data, it is challenging to guide and evaluate the water intake of toddlers in China. In this study, our objectives were to assess the daily total water intake (TWI), evaluate the consumption patterns of various beverages and food sources contributing to the TWI, determine the conformity of participants to the adequate intake (AI) recommendation of water released by the Chinese Nutrition Society, and analyze the various contributors to the daily total energy intake (TEI). The data for the assessment of water and dietary intake were obtained from the cross-sectional dietary intake survey of infants and young children (DSIYC, 2018–2019). A total of 1360 eligible toddlers were recruited in the analysis. The differences in related variables between two age groups were compared by Mann–Whitney U test and Chi-Square test. The potential correlation between water and energy intake was examined utilizing age-adjusted partial correlation. Toddlers consumed a median daily TWI of 1079 mL, with 670 mL (62.3%, r = 0.752) derived from beverages and 393 mL (37.7%, r = 0.716) from foods. Plain water was the primary beverage source, contributing 300 mL (52.2%, r = 0.823), followed by milk and milk derivatives (MMDs) at 291 mL (45.6%, r = 0.595). Notably, only 28.4% of toddlers managed to reach the recommended AI value. Among these, toddlers obtain more water from beverages than from foods. The median daily TEI of toddlers was 762 kcal, including 272 kcal from beverages (36.4%, r = 0.534) and 492 kcal from foods (63.6%, r = 0.894). Among these, the median daily energy intake from MMDs was 260 kcal, making up 94.6% of the energy intake from beverages (r = 0.959). As the pioneer survey on TWI of toddlers in China based on nationally representative data, attention to the quality and quantity of water intake and actions to better guide parents by both individuals and authorities are eagerly anticipated. Additionally, the revision of the reference value of TWI for Chinese toddlers is urgently required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2204 KiB  
Article
Emphasizing the Potential of Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy Combined with Chemometrics, for Classification of Greek Grape Marc Spirits
by Evangelia Anastasia Tsapou, Vassilia J. Sinanoglou, George Ntourtoglou and Elisabeth Koussissi
Beverages 2024, 10(2), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10020042 - 3 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1107
Abstract
Grape marc spirits, such as the Greek tsipouro/tsikoudia, reflect the cultural heritage of winemaking traditions worldwide. This study explored the application of Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for its potential as a fast classification methodology for spirit characterization. [...] Read more.
Grape marc spirits, such as the Greek tsipouro/tsikoudia, reflect the cultural heritage of winemaking traditions worldwide. This study explored the application of Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for its potential as a fast classification methodology for spirit characterization. ATR-FTIR spectra from thirty-nine products revealed distinctive bands corresponding to various chemical constituents, such as alcohols, organic acids, water, carbohydrates, and phenols. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed on all acquired ATR-FTIR data and 78.50% of the total variance in the data was explained. Also, partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), used for the classification of products based on their major geographic origin, gave a correct classification of 89.5% for the north and 83.3% for the south of Greece. Classification of the type of distillations used was with 74.36% accuracy. Significant markers were identified through analysis, such as those associated with the O-H bending vibrations of phenols or alcohols, contributing to the discrimination of grape marc spirits from Crete when compared with the other four main geographical origin designations. By combining ATR-FTIR spectroscopy with chemometrics, this research gave insights into the origins and compositional variations of the spirits, providing an opportunity for a quality control assessment tool. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 585 KiB  
Review
NIR Sensing Technologies for the Detection of Fraud in Nuts and Nut Products: A Review
by Miguel Vega-Castellote, María-Teresa Sánchez, Irina Torres-Rodríguez, José-Antonio Entrenas and Dolores Pérez-Marín
Foods 2024, 13(11), 1612; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111612 - 22 May 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1800
Abstract
Food fraud is a major threat to the integrity of the nut supply chain. Strategies using a wide range of analytical techniques have been developed over the past few years to detect fraud and to assure the quality, safety, and authenticity of nut [...] Read more.
Food fraud is a major threat to the integrity of the nut supply chain. Strategies using a wide range of analytical techniques have been developed over the past few years to detect fraud and to assure the quality, safety, and authenticity of nut products. However, most of these techniques present the limitations of being slow and destructive and entailing a high cost per analysis. Nevertheless, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and NIR imaging techniques represent a suitable non-destructive alternative to prevent fraud in the nut industry with the advantages of a high throughput and low cost per analysis. This review collects and includes all major findings of all of the published studies focused on the application of NIR spectroscopy and NIR imaging technologies to detect fraud in the nut supply chain from 2018 onwards. The results suggest that NIR spectroscopy and NIR imaging are suitable technologies to detect the main types of fraud in nuts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 3425 KiB  
Article
Production and Optimisation of Fermented Pumpkin-Based Mature Coconut Water Kefir Beverage Using Response Surface Methodology
by Wee Yin Koh, Xiao Xian Lim, Ban Hock Khor, Babak Rasti, Thuan Chew Tan, Rovina Kobun and Utra Uthumporn
Beverages 2024, 10(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10020034 - 7 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
Fermentation of pumpkin puree and mature coconut water using water kefir grains is a potential method for producing a novel functional non-dairy-based probiotic drink. In the present study, response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design (RSM-BBD) was used to optimise fermentation temperature and [...] Read more.
Fermentation of pumpkin puree and mature coconut water using water kefir grains is a potential method for producing a novel functional non-dairy-based probiotic drink. In the present study, response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design (RSM-BBD) was used to optimise fermentation temperature and substrates’ concentrations. The optimised fermentation temperature, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar concentrations of pumpkin-based mature coconut water kefir beverage (PWKC) were 27 °C, 20%, and 10% w/v, respectively. The optimised PWKC (PWKCopt) obtained an overall acceptability (OA) score of 4.03, with a desirable Lactobacillus count (6.41 Log CFU/mL), 0.68% v/v lactic acid content, 31% of water kefir grains’ biomass growth rate, and fermentation time (to reach pH 4.5) of 4.5 h. The optimized beverage, PWKCopt, contained 3.26% proteins, 2.75% dietary fibre, 2186.33 mg/L of potassium, 180.67 mg/L phosphorus, and 137.33 mg/L calcium and had a total phenolic content of 89.93 mg GAE/100 mL, flavonoid content of 49.94 mg QE/100 mL, and carotenoid content of 33.24 mg/100 mL, with antioxidant activity (FRAP: 169.17 mM Fe(II)/100 mL, IC50 value of DPPH free radicals scavenging activity: 27.17 mg/mL). Water kefir microorganisms in PWKCopt remained stable for at least 56 days at 4 °C. Therefore, PWKCopt might potentially serve as a value-added product, offering a basis for sustainable development within both the coconut and pumpkin industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 8322 KiB  
Article
Decoding the Volatile Profile of White Romanian Fetească Wines
by Fulvia-Ancuța Manolache, Denisa-Eglantina Duță, Gabriela Daniela Criveanu-Stamatie, Teodora-Alexandra Iordache and Maria-Cristina Todașcă
Separations 2024, 11(5), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11050141 - 3 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1197
Abstract
The wine’s volatilome, most of the time, defines not only its aroma, but also, its major attributes. In the case of wines, the authentication process has become imperative, in light of increased production of alcoholic beverages; consequently, reliable analytical methods have served for [...] Read more.
The wine’s volatilome, most of the time, defines not only its aroma, but also, its major attributes. In the case of wines, the authentication process has become imperative, in light of increased production of alcoholic beverages; consequently, reliable analytical methods have served for it. Therefore, the goal of this research was to establish the global volatile profile of traditional Romanian white wines from Fetească varieties (Fetească albă, Fetească regală) in order to identify its unique characteristics by means of a headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography analysis (HS-SPME/GC-MS) and e-Nose devoted techniques. Statistics was also employed aimed at differentiating the analyzed wine by varietal groups. Consequently, 23 volatile compounds were detected and quantified in 39 Fetească white wine samples originating from various production areas (Muntenia, Oltenia, Transylvania, Banat and Dobrogea), then further classified according to their odor thresholds in five aromatic classes (floral, fruity, sweet, lactic (cheesy) and other). In addition, statistics (Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hieratical Clustering Analysis (HCA)) were used aiming to differentiate the analyzed varietal groups. The outcomes have pointed out the existence of distinct clusters connected with ethyl esters or alcohol composition and production year, depending on each examined variety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2756 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Key Odorants in Lushan Yunwu Tea in Response to Intercropping with Flowering Cherry
by Yinxiang Gao, Zhiyong Lei, Jigang Huang, Yongming Sun, Shuang Liu, Liping Yao, Jiaxin Liu, Wenxin Liu, Yanan Liu and Yan Chen
Foods 2024, 13(8), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081252 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1346
Abstract
Lushan Yunwu tea (LSYWT) is a famous green tea in China. However, the effects of intercropping tea with flowering cherry on the overall aroma of tea have not been well understood. In this study, headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry [...] Read more.
Lushan Yunwu tea (LSYWT) is a famous green tea in China. However, the effects of intercropping tea with flowering cherry on the overall aroma of tea have not been well understood. In this study, headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used for analysis. A total of 54 volatile compounds from eight chemical classes were identified in tea samples from both the intercropping and pure-tea-plantation groups. Principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and odor activity value (OAV) methods combined with sensory evaluation identified cis-jasmone, nonanal, and linalool as the key aroma compounds in the intercropping group. Benzaldehyde, α-farnesene, and methyl benzene were identified as the main volatile compounds in the flowering cherry using headspace solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC–MS). These findings will enrich the research on tea aroma chemistry and offer new insights into the product development and quality improvement of LSYWT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2524 KiB  
Article
Development, Validation, and Application of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detection Method for Simultaneous Determination of Ginkgolic Acids and Ginkgols in Ginkgo biloba
by Isaac Duah Boateng, Fengnan Li and Xiao-Ming Yang
Foods 2024, 13(8), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081250 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1079
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba leaves (GBLs), which comprise many phytoconstituents, also contain a toxic substance named ginkgolic acid (GA). Our previous research showed that heating could decarboxylate and degrade GA into ginkgols with high levels of bioactivity. Several methods are available to measure GA in [...] Read more.
Ginkgo biloba leaves (GBLs), which comprise many phytoconstituents, also contain a toxic substance named ginkgolic acid (GA). Our previous research showed that heating could decarboxylate and degrade GA into ginkgols with high levels of bioactivity. Several methods are available to measure GA in GBLs, but no analytical method has been developed to measure ginkgols and GA simultaneously. Hence, for the first time, an HPLC-DAD method was established to simultaneously determine GA and ginkgols using acetonitrile (0.01% trifluoroacetic acid, v/v) as mobile phase A and water (0.01% trifluoroacetic acid, v/v) as mobile phase B. The gradient elution conditions were: 0–30 min, 75–90% phase A; 30–35 min, 90–90% phase A; 35–36 min, 90–75% phase A; 36–46 min, 75–75% phase A. The detection wavelength of GA and ginkgol were 210 and 270 nm, respectively. The flow rate and injection volume were 1.0 mL/min and 50 μL, respectively. The linearity was excellent (R2 > 0.999), and the RSD of the precision, stability, and repeatability of the total ginkgols was 0.20%, 2.21%, and 2.45%, respectively, in six parallel determinations. The recoveries for the low, medium, and high groups were 96.58%, 97.67%, and 101.52%, respectively. The limit of detection of ginkgol C13:0, C15:1, and C17:1 was 0.61 ppm, 0.50 ppm, and 0.06 ppm, respectively. The limit of quantification of ginkgol C13:0, C15:1, and C17:1 was 2.01 ppm, 1.65 ppm, and 0.20 ppm, respectively. Finally, this method accurately measured the GA and ginkgol content in ginkgo leaves and ginkgo tea products (ginkgo black tea, ginkgo dark tea, ginkgo white tea, and ginkgo green tea), whereas principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to help visualize the association between GA and ginkgols and five different processing methods for GBLs. Thus, this research provides an efficient and accurate quantitative method for the subsequent detection of GA and ginkgols in ginkgo tea. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 10953 KiB  
Article
Detection and Comparison of Volatile Organic Compounds in Four Varieties of Hawthorn Using HS-GC-IMS
by Lijun Zhu, Feilin Ou, Yun Xiang, Bin Wang, Yingchao Mao, Lingfeng Zhu, Qun Zhang and Chang Lei
Separations 2024, 11(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11040100 - 28 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1424
Abstract
Hawthorn is a type of natural food with significant medicinal and nutritional properties; it has been listed in the “Both Food and Drug” list by the Chinese Ministry of Health Item List since 1997. However, hawthorn varieties have complex origins, and there are [...] Read more.
Hawthorn is a type of natural food with significant medicinal and nutritional properties; it has been listed in the “Both Food and Drug” list by the Chinese Ministry of Health Item List since 1997. However, hawthorn varieties have complex origins, and there are significant differences in the content, type, and medicinal efficacy of the chemically active ingredients in different varieties of hawthorn. This leads to the phenomenon of mixed varieties and substandard products being passed off as high-quality. In this work, by using headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS), we identified and analyzed volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in four varieties of hawthorn, establishing their characteristic fingerprints. As a result, a total of 153 peaks were detected, and 139 VOCs were also identified. As shown by the fingerprint profiles, the different hawthorn samples contained different VOCs. Meanwhile, by using principal component analysis (PCA), Euclidean distance, and partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), the relationship between the VOCs found in the different varieties of hawthorn was revealed. This study developed a simple, fast, accurate, and sensitive method for identifying, tracking, and evaluating hawthorn varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1070 KiB  
Article
Increasing the Amounts of Bioactive Components in American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) Leaves Using Far-Infrared Irradiation
by Xuan Wang, Myungjin Kim, Ruoqi Han, Jiarui Liu, Xuemei Sun, Shuyang Sun, Chengwu Jin and Dongha Cho
Foods 2024, 13(4), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13040607 - 17 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1247
Abstract
Both the roots and leaves of American ginseng contain ginsenosides and polyphenols. The impact of thermal processing on enhancing the biological activities of the root by altering its component composition has been widely reported. However, the effects of far-infrared irradiation (FIR), an efficient [...] Read more.
Both the roots and leaves of American ginseng contain ginsenosides and polyphenols. The impact of thermal processing on enhancing the biological activities of the root by altering its component composition has been widely reported. However, the effects of far-infrared irradiation (FIR), an efficient heat treatment method, on the bioactive components of the leaves remain to be elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the effects of FIR heat treatment between 160 and 200 °C on the deglycosylation and dehydration rates of the bioactive components in American ginseng leaves. As the temperature was increased, the amounts of common ginsenosides decreased while those of rare ginsenosides increased. After FIR heat treatment of American ginseng leaves at an optimal 190 °C, the highest total polyphenolic content and kaempferol content were detected, the antioxidant activity was significantly enhanced, and the amounts of the rare ginsenosides F4, Rg6, Rh4, Rk3, Rk1, Rg3, and Rg5 were 41, 5, 37, 64, 222, 17, and 266 times higher than those in untreated leaves, respectively. Moreover, the radical scavenging rates for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and the reducing power of the treated leaf extracts were 2.17, 1.86, and 1.77 times higher, respectively. Hence, FIR heat treatment at 190 °C is an efficient method for producing beneficial bioactive components from American ginseng leaves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2432 KiB  
Article
Physical and Chemical Properties, Flavor and Organoleptic Characteristics of a Walnut and Purple Rice Fermented Plant Drink
by Hongyu Mu, Tianyi Dai, Si Huang, Kuan Wu, Mingming Wang, Chunlei Tan, Feng Zhang, Jun Sheng and Cunchao Zhao
Foods 2024, 13(3), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13030400 - 26 Jan 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1944
Abstract
In recent years, green and healthy foods have attracted much attention. Plant-based foods have become an alternative to animal-derived foods. In this study, we used walnut and purple rice as the primary raw materials to produce a fermented plant drink. The process included [...] Read more.
In recent years, green and healthy foods have attracted much attention. Plant-based foods have become an alternative to animal-derived foods. In this study, we used walnut and purple rice as the primary raw materials to produce a fermented plant drink. The process included boiling, mixing, grinding, inoculation, fermentation, and sterilization. We then analyzed the similarities and differences between the resulting walnut and purple rice fermented plant drink and an unfermented walnut and purple rice plant drink, as well as dairy-based yoghurt, in terms of physical chemistry, flavor, and sensory characteristics. We also examined the similarities and differences between the walnut and purple rice fermented plant drink and room-temperature yoghurt. The study results revealed that the walnut and purple rice fermented plant drink exhibited greater viscosity than the walnut and purple rice unfermented plant drink and room-temperature yoghurt. Additionally, the former displayed enhanced stability and recovery ability. Notably, distinguishable differences were observed between the three samples in terms of the presence of unknown volatiles and the umami signal, as indicated by electronic nose/tongue and GC-IMS analyses. The umami flavor of the walnut and purple rice fermented plant drink surpasses that of room-temperature yoghurt, while its taste is less salty than that of the walnut and purple rice plant drink. Despite possessing a weaker aroma than dairy-based yogurt, it is more potent than the walnut and purple rice plant drink. Additionally, its relative abundance of olefins, ketones, and alcohols enhances its unique flavor profile, surpassing both other options. Based on sensory analysis, it can be deduced that walnut and purple rice fermented plant drink has the highest overall acceptance rate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Back to TopTop