Reducing curing time via a shell‐less method: a comparative analysis of flavour characteristics in salted egg yolk

Summary The rapid shell‐less curing method significantly simplifies the processing cycle of salted egg yolks (SEYs). However, differences in flavour attributes between rapidly cured SEYs and traditionally cured SEYs have yet to be clearly established. Herein, a comprehensive evaluation of the volatile compounds in SEYs using HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS and HS‐GC‐IMS aims to delineate the flavour characteristics under varying preparation methods. Despite reduced oil exudation, the rapid salting process resulted in higher levels of free amino acids than the traditional approach. Hexanal, nonanal, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, 2‐pentyl‐furan, phenylacetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, 2‐octenal, and 2,5‐dimethyl‐pyrazine were identified as significant contributors to the SEY flavour profile. Conversely, salted hen egg yolks contained methional, decanal and 2‐methyl‐pyrimidine; whereas salted duck egg yolks presented with (E , E) ‐2,4‐decadienal, 2,6‐diethyl‐pyrazine and nonanoic acid. Principal component analysis of the E‐nose revealed that the aroma profile of rapid curing (SHY‐R25) was more similar to that of traditional curing (SHY). The rapid preparation technology presented a viable alternative to traditional pickling, capable of partially replicating the flavour of traditional salted egg yolks within a single day. These findings contributed to a more scientific application and preparation of SEY flavouring bases, providing a theoretical basis for flavour enhancement and development.