The effect of addition of selected carrageenans on viscoelastic properties of model processed cheese spreads

Abstract

The effect of 0.25% w/w K-carrageenan and i-carrageenan on viscoelastic properties of processed cheese were studied using model samples containing 40% w/w dry matter and 45 and 50% w/w fat in dry matter. Experimental samples of processed cheese were evaluated after 14 days of storage at the temperature of 6 ± 2°C. Basic parameters of processed cheese samples under study (i.e. their dry matter content and pH) were not different (P ≥ 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in values of storage modulus G′ [Pa], loss modulus G″ [Pa] and tangent of phase shift angle tan δ [-] for the reference frequency of 1 Hz between processed cheese with K-carrageenan applied in the form of powder and in the form of aqueous dispersion (P ≥ 0.05). The addition of 0.25% w/w K-carrageenan and l-carrageenan (in the powder form) resulted in an increase in storage (G′) and loss (G″) moduli and a decrease in values of tan 5 (P < 0.05). As compared with control (i.e. without added carrageenans), samples of processed cheese became firmer. Iota-carrageenan added in the powder form in concentration of 0.25% w/w showed a more intensive effect on the increase in firmness of processed cheese under study than K-carrageenan (P < 0.05).