The effect of mixing temperature on the flavour expression of processed cream cheese

Although manufacturing conditions affect the texture of processed cheese, the effects of manufacturing conditions on flavour expression, and the mechanisms for these effects are unknown. This study investigated the effects of mixing temperature on the flavour expression of processed cream cheese and aimed to determine whether the content of aroma compounds in the matrix, the texture, and hydrophobic interactions between aroma compounds and the matrix contribute to flavour expression. Four model cheeses with mixing temperatures of 30 °C, 60 °C, 75 °C, and 88 °C were prepared. Sensory analysis, volatile aroma compound evaluations using HS-SPME and SAFE-GC/MS, texture analysis, microstructure observation, and hydrophobicity evaluation were conducted. The result showed that the decrease of scores for perceptions of “Yoghurt aroma”, “Acidity”, and “Acetic aroma” with increasing mixing temperature was due to the generation of aroma compounds. The decrease in scores for “Overall flavour intensity” was due to the product's hardened texture.