Integration of GC-MS volatiles, texturometric-colorimetric profiles with sensory perception in plant-forward probiotic dairy systems
OPEN CHEMISTRY, vol.24, no.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 24 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1515/chem-2025-0249
- Journal Name: OPEN CHEMISTRY
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Directory of Open Access Journals
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Bursa Uludag University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study investigated the integration of GC-MS-derived volatile profiles with texturometric-colorimetric measurements and sensory perception in plant-forward probiotic dairy systems formulated by partial substitution of reconstituted cow milk with a chestnut-based beverage (0-100 %). Changes in instrumental color (L*, a*, b*, Delta E, hue angle, chroma, and whiteness index), whey separation, and texture (firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, and viscosity index) were monitored over 21 days of refrigerated storage. Aroma compounds, including acetaldehyde, diacetyl, ethanol, and acetic acid, were quantified by GC-MS and correlated with sensory attributes determined by quantitative descriptive analysis. Formulation significantly influenced color and physical stability (P < 0.05), with increasing chestnut content resulting in a darker appearance, reduced whiteness, and lower whey separation. Milk-based samples exhibited higher initial firmness, whereas chestnut-rich systems developed firmer, starch-driven gel structures during storage. Multivariate correlation analysis revealed strong associations between instrumental and sensory data, notably between acetaldehyde and fermented flavor (r approximate to 0.88), ethanol and yeast notes (r approximate to 0.83), and acetic acid and acidic-bitter perception (r approximate to 0.93). Principal component analysis explained 79.96 % of total variance, identifying acidity- and texture-related parameters as primary discriminators among formulations. Intermediate chestnut-based beverage levels (10-30 %) achieved the most balanced sensory profile, integrating desirable fermented aroma with acceptable texture and appearance.