Characterisation and identification of key cardboard-like off-odour compounds and possible origins in yoghurt using HS-SPME-GC-MS

Cardboard-like off-odour in yoghurt can negatively impact consumer acceptability. Herein, a method has been developed to analyse off-odorants in yoghurt using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Of 56 volatile organic compounds identified, 8 were active compounds responsible for cardboard-like off-odour, including 2, 2-dimethyl-propanoic acid and 3-methyl-2-pentanone, which were newly identified in yoghurt. Hexanol and hexanal were found to be indicators of quality deterioration. The off-odour may be caused by packaging materials and temperature changes during logistic activities. Overall, identifying off-odorants can help producers to determine which part of the yoghurt-producing process can be changed to avoid contamination.

Automated summary

Cardboard-like off-odour in yoghurt can be analyzed using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The method identified 56 volatile organic compounds, including 8 active compounds responsible for the off-odour. Hexanol and hexanal were indicators of quality deterioration. The off-odour may be caused by packaging materials and temperature changes during logistic activities. Identifying off-odorants can help producers determine process changes to avoid contamination.