A technique for integrated assessment of food quality as affected by various technological processes

Abstract

In this paper, we present a methodology for integrated assessment of food quality as affected by various processes. In particular, the method of high-frequency acoustic cavitation, which is used for making Circassian cheese, is considered. The following measurement techniques were used: sample deformation profile test, relaxation depth test by penetrating to 36 mm with a cylinder, cheese hardness when penetrated with a ∅2 mm cylinder, and cutting force. An integrated metric for assessing food quality is proposed, which describes its rheological properties (the depth of relaxation). In addition, a diagram of the structural and mechanical classes of food, which combines multiple organoleptic and rheological food properties, is proposed. This diagram can be used for estimating the effect of a specific treatment process on food production.