The effects of single- or 2-stage ultra-high pressure homogenization (UHPH; 100 to 330 MPa) at an inlet temperature of 30 degrees C on the cheese-making properties of bovine milk were investigated. Effects were compared with those from raw, heat-pasteurized (72 degrees C for 15 s), and conventional homogenized-pasteurized (15 + 3 MPa, 72 degrees C for 15 s) treatments. Rennet coagulation time, rate of curd firming, curd firmness, wet yield, and moisture content of curds were assessed. Results of particle size and distribution of milk, whey composition, and gel microstructure observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy were analyzed to understand the effect of UHPH. Single-stage UHPH at 200 and 300 MPa enhanced rennet coagulation properties. However, these properties were negatively affected by the use of the UHPH secondary stage. Increasing the pressure led to higher yields and moisture content of curds. The improvement in the cheese-making properties of milk by UHPH could be explained by changes to the protein-fat structures due to the combined effect of heat and homogenization.
Ultra-high-pressure homogenisation (UHPH) is a novel technology with applications in the processing of fluids. While the technology is based on conventional balland-seat homogenisers, developments in valve design and materials have enabled pressures of 400 MPa to be achieved. The benefits of UHPH include shelf-life extension through inactivation of microorganisms and improvements in functionality due to increased emulsion capacity and stability, with minimal effects on nutritional value and sensory characteristics. It is also envisaged that the thermal effects of UHPH are minimal as the treated fluid reaches its maximum temperature for less than a second. European research projects have recently supported the studies of UHPH for food applications, including dairy products, vegetable milk, and fruit juices. These projects have been focused on the evaluation of the effects of UHPH on a large number of food components, with a particular emphasis on control of enzymes and physical functionality. UHPH is a sustainable process that has potential application in a large number of liquid foods, including milk (cow, goat, soy, rice, and almond), fruit juices (orange, apple, and grape), and manufactured food products (yoghurt, soghurt, and cheese) as a novel process for the production of a wide variety of safe and nutritious foods.
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