Acidulants can contribute considerably to the flavor of food.
However, limited research on differences in acid flavor exists. While
numerous researchers have studied acids, most have focused on sourness
exclusively. Acids have been shown previously to differ in non-sour
components, such as bitterness and astringency. A series of experiments
were conducted to determine flavor characteristics of selected acids in
different systems.
First, selected acids (lactic, malic, citric, acetic) and 2 acid blends
(lactic/acetic 1:1 and 2:1) in a model (water) system were evaluated on an
equivalent weight (0.2% w/v) and on an equivalent pH basis. Three pH levels were explored: 3.5, 4.5 and 6.5. The technique of free-choice profiling was applied to characterize the flavor profile. Results analyzed by
generalized procrustes analysis showed two significant findings: (1) acids
differ in sensory character, and (2) the flavor of an acid changes with pH.
Second, selected acids (lactic, malic, citric, tartaric) were evaluated in
sweetened, flavored drinks on an equivalent weight basis at two
concentrations (0.4 and 0.6% w/v). Four flavors were evaluated: orange,
cherry, cola and strawberry. Descriptive analysis was used, and the data was
analyzed by principal component analysis. Significant differences were
found on among acids and concentrations. For the orange flavor system,
citric acid enhanced the orange flavor of the drink.
Third, selected acids (lactic, citric, acetic) and 2 acid blends
(acetic/lactic 1:1 and 2:1) were evaluated in emulsions on an equivalent pH
basis. Three pH levels were explored: 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5. These findings
support the first study as differences were found among acids, and flavor
changes existed when pH changed. / Graduation date: 1995
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ORGSU/oai:ir.library.oregonstate.edu:1957/27254 |
| Date | 02 September 1994 |
| Creators | Hartwig, Pam A. |
| Contributors | McDaniel, Mina R. |
| Source Sets | Oregon State University |
| Language | en_US |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis/Dissertation |
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