Inactivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in conference pear with high pressure carbon dioxide and effects on pear quality
2010
Valverde, M.T. | Marín Iniesta, F. | Calvo, L.
This work explores the use of high pressure carbon dioxide (HPCD) for the inactivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in fresh-cut conference pears. This fruit was chosen as an example of a ready to eat and minimally processed food. Assays were carried out with continuous CO₂ flow at different pressures (6-30MPa), temperatures (25-55°C), and exposure times (10-90min). Heat treatments at similar temperatures and times were compared to the use of HPCD, wherein it was observed that HPCD was more effective. The total inactivation (5 log₁₀ cycles) of the yeast took place at 55°C with HPCD while it was necessary to reach 70°C when only heat was applied. Required pressures and exposure times were relatively low (⩽6MPa and on the order of minutes) because of the direct contact between the CO₂ and the pear. The pH and °Brix were not affected by the HPCD treatment; however, the pears lost their texture and became darker due to a decrease in vitamin C and enzymatic browning. Peroxidase activity was only partially reduced. The addition of an antioxidant did not help to prevent darkening. Therefore, HPCD could be a low temperature conservation method that is superior to conventional thermal treatments for the preparation of fruit preserves where a firm texture is not essential.
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