Effects of high hydrostatic pressure combined with vacuum-freeze drying on the aroma-active compounds in blended pumpkin, mango, and jujube juice

Abstract

A combination process of completely non-thermal processing methods involving high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and vacuum-freeze drying (VFD) for producing a new snack from fruit and vegetable blends was developed, and the effect of the process on flavor quality was investigated. The HHP–VFD treatment did not significantly reduce volatile compound contents compared to single HHP or VFD. Gas chromatography–olfactometry showed that HHP–VFD raised the contents of floral-like volatile compounds (e.g., β-ionone) compared to the untreated sample. Sensory evaluation analysis confirmed that the overall liking was unchanged after the HHP–VFD treatment. The HHP–VFD combined treatment is effective in maintaining the flavor and extending shelf life, and is convenient for the portability and transportation of ready-to-drink juice.