Foods

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21 pages, 3098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Microbiome of the Cretan Sour Cream Staka Using Amplicon Sequencing and Shotgun Metagenomics and Isolation of Novel Strains with an Important Antimicrobial Potential

by Konstantinos Papadimitriou, Marina Georgalaki, Rania Anastasiou, Athanasia-Maria Alexandropoulou, Eugenia Manolopoulou, Georgia Zoumpopoulou and Effie Tsakalidou

Foods 2024, 13(7), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071129 - 08 Apr 2024

Viewed by 673

Abstract

Staka is a traditional Greek sour cream made mostly from spontaneously fermented sheep milk or a mixture of sheep and goat milk. At the industrial scale, cream separators and starter cultures may also be used. Staka is sometimes cooked with flour to absorb [...] Read more.

Staka is a traditional Greek sour cream made mostly from spontaneously fermented sheep milk or a mixture of sheep and goat milk. At the industrial scale, cream separators and starter cultures may also be used. Staka is sometimes cooked with flour to absorb most of the fat. In this study, we employed culture-based techniques, amplicon sequencing, and shotgun metagenomics to analyze the Staka microbiome for the first time. The samples were dominated by Lactococcus or Leuconostoc spp. Most other bacteria were lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from the Streptococcus and Enterococcus genera or Gram-negative bacteria from the Buttiauxella, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Escherichia-Shigella, and Hafnia genera. Debaryomyces, Kluyveromyces, or Alternaria were the most prevalent genera in the samples, followed by other yeasts and molds like Saccharomyces, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Stemphylium, Coniospotium, or Cladosporium spp. Shotgun metagenomics allowed the species-level identification of Lactococcus lactis, Lactococcus raffinolactis, Streptococcus thermophilus, Streptococcus gallolyticus, Escherichia coli, Hafnia alvei, Streptococcus parauberis, and Enterococcus durans. Binning of assembled shotgun reads followed by recruitment plot analysis of single reads could determine near-complete metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs). Culture-dependent and culture-independent analyses were in overall agreement with some distinct differences. For example, lactococci could not be isolated, presumably because they had entered a viable but not culturable (VBNC) state or because they were dead. Finally, several LAB, Hafnia paralvei, and Pseudomonas spp. isolates exhibited antimicrobial activities against oral or other pathogenic streptococci, and certain spoilage and pathogenic bacteria establishing their potential role in food bio-protection or new biomedical applications. Our study may pave the way for additional studies concerning artisanal sour creams to better understand the factors affecting their production and the quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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19 pages, 5235 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Microbiome of Industrial PDO Sfela Cheese and Its Artisanal Variants Using 16S rDNA Amplicon Sequencing and Shotgun Metagenomics

by Natalia Tsouggou, Aleksandra Slavko, Olympia Tsipidou, Anastasios Georgoulis, Svetoslav G. Dimov, Jia Yin, Constantinos E. Vorgias, John Kapolos, Marina Papadelli and Konstantinos Papadimitriou

Foods 2024, 13(7), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071023 - 27 Mar 2024

Viewed by 792

Abstract

Sfela is a white brined Greek cheese of protected designation of origin (PDO) produced in the Peloponnese region from ovine, caprine milk, or a mixture of the two. Despite the PDO status of Sfela, very few studies have addressed its properties, including its [...] Read more.

Sfela is a white brined Greek cheese of protected designation of origin (PDO) produced in the Peloponnese region from ovine, caprine milk, or a mixture of the two. Despite the PDO status of Sfela, very few studies have addressed its properties, including its microbiology. For this reason, we decided to investigate the microbiome of two PDO industrial Sfela cheese samples along with two non-PDO variants, namely Sfela touloumotiri and Xerosfeli. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics analysis were used to identify the microbiome of these traditional cheeses. Cultured-based analysis showed that the most frequent species that could be isolated from Sfela cheese were Enterococcus faecium, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Levilactobacillus brevis, Pediococcus pentosaceus and Streptococcus thermophilus. Shotgun analysis suggested that in industrial Sfela 1, Str. thermophilus dominated, while industrial Sfela 2 contained high levels of Lactococcus lactis. The two artisanal samples, Sfela touloumotiri and Xerosfeli, were dominated by Tetragenococcus halophilus and Str. thermophilus, respectively. Debaryomyces hansenii was the only yeast species with abundance > 1% present exclusively in the Sfela touloumotiri sample. Identifying additional yeast species in the shotgun data was challenging, possibly due to their low abundance. Sfela cheese appears to contain a rather complex microbial ecosystem and thus needs to be further studied and understood. This might be crucial for improving and standardizing both its production and safety measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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9 pages, 260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of PRKD1 and KCNQ3 Gene and Milk Quality Traits in Gannan Yak (Bos grunniens)

by Xiaoyong Ma, Guowu Yang, Juanxiang Zhang, Rong Ma, Jinwei Shen, Fen Feng, Daoning Yu, Chun Huang, Xiaoming Ma, Yongfu La, Xiaoyun Wu, Xian Guo, Min Chu, Ping Yan and Chunnian Liang

Foods 2024, 13(5), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13050781 - 02 Mar 2024

Viewed by 754

Abstract

Protein kinase D1 (PRKD1) functions primarily in normal mammary cells, and the potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 3 (KCNQ3) gene plays an important role in controlling membrane potential and neuronal excitability, it has been found that this particular gene is [...] Read more.

Protein kinase D1 (PRKD1) functions primarily in normal mammary cells, and the potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 3 (KCNQ3) gene plays an important role in controlling membrane potential and neuronal excitability, it has been found that this particular gene is linked to the percentage of milk fat in dairy cows. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PRKD1 and KCNQ3 genes and the milk quality of Gannan yak and to find molecular marker sites that may be used for milk quality breeding of Gannan yak. Three new SNPs were detected in the PRKD1 (g.283,619T>C, g.283,659C>A) and KCNQ3 gene (g.133,741T>C) of 172 Gannan lactating female yaks by Illumina yak cGPS 7K liquid-phase microarray technology. Milk composition was analyzed using a MilkoScan^TM milk composition analyzer. We found that the mutations of these three loci significantly improved the lactose, milk fat, casein, protein, non-fat milk solid (SNF) content and acidity of Gannan yaks. The lactose content of the TC heterozygous genotype population at g.283,619T>C locus was significantly higher than that of the TT wild-type population (p < 0.05); the milk fat content of the CA heterozygous genotype population at g.283,659C>A locus was significantly higher than that of the CC wild-type and AA mutant populations (p < 0.05); the casein, protein and acidity of the CC mutant and TC heterozygous groups at the g.133,741T>C locus were significantly higher than those of the wild type (p < 0.05), and the SNF of the TC heterozygous group was significantly higher than that of the mutant group (p < 0.05). The results showed that PRKD1 and KCNQ3 genes could be used as candidate genes affecting the milk traits of Gannan yak. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

13 pages, 3049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microproteomic-Based Analysis of the Goat Milk Protein Synthesis Network and Casein Production Evaluation

by Li Chen, Hiroaki Taniguchi and Emilia Bagnicka

Foods 2024, 13(4), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13040619 - 19 Feb 2024

Viewed by 641

Abstract

Goat milk has been consumed by humans since ancient times and is highly nutritious. Its quality is mainly determined by its casein content. Milk protein synthesis is controlled by a complex network with many signal pathways. Therefore, the aim of our study is [...] Read more.

Goat milk has been consumed by humans since ancient times and is highly nutritious. Its quality is mainly determined by its casein content. Milk protein synthesis is controlled by a complex network with many signal pathways. Therefore, the aim of our study is to clearly depict the signal pathways involved in milk protein synthesis in goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) using state-of-the-art microproteomic techniques and to identify the key genes involved in the signal pathway. The microproteomic analysis identified more than 2253 proteins, with 323 pathways annotated from the identified proteins. Knockdown of IRS1 expression significantly influenced goat casein composition (α, β, and κ); therefore, this study also examined the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) gene more closely. A total of 12 differential expression proteins (DEPs) were characterized as upregulated or downregulated in the IRS1-silenced sample compared to the negative control. The enrichment and signal pathways of these DEPs in GMECs were identified using GO annotation and KEGG, as well as KOG analysis. Our findings expand our understanding of the functional genes involved in milk protein synthesis in goats, paving the way for new approaches for modifying casein content for the dairy goat industry and milk product development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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11 pages, 1164 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polymorphisms of CCSER1 Gene and Their Correlation with Milk Quality Traits in Gannan Yak (Bos grunniens)

by Guowu Yang, Juanxiang Zhang, Xiaoyong Ma, Rong Ma, Jinwei Shen, Modian Liu, Daoning Yu, Fen Feng, Chun Huang, Xiaoming Ma, Yongfu La, Xian Guo, Ping Yan and Chunnian Liang

Foods 2023, 12(23), 4318; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12234318 - 29 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899

Abstract

Coiled-coil serine-rich protein 1 (CCSER 1) gene is a regulatory protein gene. This gene has been reported to be associated with various economic traits in large mammals in recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between [...] Read more.

Coiled-coil serine-rich protein 1 (CCSER 1) gene is a regulatory protein gene. This gene has been reported to be associated with various economic traits in large mammals in recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between CCSER1 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and Gannan yaks and to identify potential molecular marker loci for breeding milk quality in Gannan yaks. We genotyped 172 Gannan yaks using Illumina Yak cGPS 7K liquid microarrays and analyzed the correlation between the three SNPs loci of the CCSER1 gene and the milk qualities of Gannan yaks, including milk fat, protein and casein. It was found that mutations at the g.183,843A>G, g.222,717C>G and g.388,723G>T loci all affected the fat, protein, casein and lactose traits of Gannan yak milk to varying extents, and that the milk quality of individuals with mutant phenotypes was significantly improved. Among them, the milk fat content of AG heterozygous genotype population at g.183,843A>G locus was significantly higher than that of AA and GG genotype populations (p < 0.05); the casein and protein content of mutant GG and CG genotype populations at g.222,717C>G locus was significantly higher than that of wild-type CC genotype population (p < 0.05); and the g.388,723G>T locus of the casein and protein contents of the mutant TT genotype population were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the wild-type GG genotype population. These results provide potential molecular marker sites for Gannan yak breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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17 pages, 3017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between the Bacterial Composition of Farm Bulk Milk and the Microbiota in the Resulting Swedish Long-Ripened Cheese

by Li Sun, Annika Höjer, Monika Johansson, Karin Hallin Saedén, Gun Bernes, Mårten Hetta, Anders H. Gustafsson, Johan Dicksved and Åse Lundh

Foods 2023, 12(20), 3796; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12203796 - 16 Oct 2023

Viewed by 992

Abstract

The maturation of a traditional Swedish long-ripened cheese has shown increasing variation in recent years and the ripening time is now generally longer than in the past. While the cheese is reliant on non-starter lactic acid bacteria for the development of its characteristic [...] Read more.

The maturation of a traditional Swedish long-ripened cheese has shown increasing variation in recent years and the ripening time is now generally longer than in the past. While the cheese is reliant on non-starter lactic acid bacteria for the development of its characteristic flavour, we hypothesised that the observed changes could be due to variations in the microbiota composition and number of bacteria in the raw milk used for production of the cheese. To evaluate associations between microbiota in the raw milk and the resulting cheese, three clusters of commercial farms were created to increase variation in the microbiota of dairy silo milk used for cheese production. Cheese production was performed in three periods over one year. Within each period, milk from the three farm clusters was collected separately and transported to the cheese production facility. Following pasteurisation, the milk was processed into the granular-eyed cheese and matured at a dedicated cheese-ripening facility. For each cheese batch, farm bulk and dairy silo milk samples, a starter culture, early process samples and cheese samples from different stages of maturation (7–20 months) were collected and their microbiota characterised using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The microbiota in the farm bulk milk differed significantly between periods and clusters. Differences in microbiota in dairy silo milk were observed between periods, but not between farm clusters, while the cheese microbiota differed between periods and clusters. The top 13 amplicon sequence variants were dominant in early process samples and the resulting cheese, making up at least 93.3% of the relative abundance (RA). Lactococcus was the dominant genus in the early process samples and, together with Leuconostoc, also dominated in the cheese samples. Contradicting expectations, the RA of the aroma-producing genus Lactobacillus was low in cheese during ripening and there was an unexpected dominance of starter lactic acid bacteria even at the later stages of cheese ripening. To identify factors behind the recent variations in ripening time of this cheese, future studies should address the effects of process variables and the dairy environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1713 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Pressure and Pasteurization Effects on Dairy Cream

by Fernanda Machado, Ricardo V. Duarte, Carlos A. Pinto, Susana Casal, José A. Lopes-da-Silva and Jorge A. Saraiva

Foods 2023, 12(19), 3640; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12193640 - 01 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1395

Abstract

Dairy cream, a common ingredient in various dishes and food products, is susceptible to rapid microbial growth due to its high water activity (≈0.97) and pH (≈6.7). Thus, it requires proper processing conditions to ensure food safety and extend shelf life. High-pressure processing [...] Read more.

Dairy cream, a common ingredient in various dishes and food products, is susceptible to rapid microbial growth due to its high water activity (≈0.97) and pH (≈6.7). Thus, it requires proper processing conditions to ensure food safety and extend shelf life. High-pressure processing (HPP) has emerged as a nonthermal food pasteurization method, offering an alternative to conventional heat-based techniques to obtain tastier, fresh-like, and safe dairy products without undesirable heat-induced alterations. This study assessed the impact of HPP (450 and 600 MPa for 5 and 15 min at 7 °C) and thermal pasteurization (75 °C for 15 s) on the microbiological and physicochemical attributes of dairy cream immediately after processing and throughout refrigerated storage (4 °C). HPP-treated samples remained microbiologically acceptable even on the 51st day of storage, unlike thermally pasteurized samples. Moreover, HPP decreased inoculated Escherichia coli and Listeria innocua counts by more than 6 log units to undetectable levels (1.00 log CFU/mL). pH, color (maximum variation of ΔE* up to 8.43), and fatty acid profiles remained relatively stable under varying processing conditions and during storage. However, viscosity exhibited higher values for HPP-treated samples (0.028 ± 0.003 Pa·s) compared to thermally processed ones (0.016 ± 0.002 Pa·s) by the 28th day of storage. Furthermore, volatile compounds (VOCs) of all treated samples presented a tendency to increase throughout storage, particularly acids and aliphatic hydrocarbons. These findings show HPP’s potential to significantly extend the shelf life of highly perishable dairy cream by at least 15 days compared to thermal pasteurization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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14 pages, 1489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clotting and Proteolytic Activity of Freeze-Dried Crude Extracts Obtained from Wild Thistles Cynara humilis L. and Onopordum platylepis Murb.

by Cindy Bande-De León, Laura Buendía-Moreno, Adela Abellán, Pamela Manzi, Bouthaina Al Mohandes Dridi, Ismahen Essaidi, Lucia Aquilanti and Luis Tejada

Foods 2023, 12(12), 2325; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12122325 - 09 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1059

Abstract

The rising interest in finding alternatives to animal rennet in cheese production has led to studying the technological feasibility of using and exploiting new species of herbaceous plants. In this research work, and for the first time, freeze-dried extracts from Cynara humilis L. [...] Read more.

The rising interest in finding alternatives to animal rennet in cheese production has led to studying the technological feasibility of using and exploiting new species of herbaceous plants. In this research work, and for the first time, freeze-dried extracts from Cynara humilis L. (CH) and Onopordum platylepis Murb. (OP) were studied for mineral and protein content, and their clotting and proteolytic activity were compared to those of Cynara cardunculus L. (CC). The effect of extract concentration (5–40 mg extract/mL), temperature (20–85 °C), pH (5–8), and CaCl₂ concentration (5–70 mM) on the milk clotting activity (MCA) of CC, CH and OP extracts was evaluated. The MCA values were significantly higher in CC at the same extract concentration. The extract that showed the most significant increase in clotting activity due to increased temperature was OP, with maximum activity at 70 °C. The pH value for maximum milk clotting was 5.0 for both CC and CH, whereas, in the case of OP, the pH value was 5.5. CaCl₂ enhanced the clotting capacity of the extracts, particularly for OP and CH. Furthermore, proteolytic activity (PA) and the hydrolysis rate increased with increasing time and enzyme concentration, with CC being the extract that achieved the highest caseinolytic activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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18 pages, 3586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Lavender Flower Powder as a Flavoring Ingredient on Volatile Composition and Quality Characteristics of Gouda-Type Cheese during Ripening

by Cristina Anamaria Semeniuc, Mara Mandrioli, Matilde Tura, Beatrice Sabrina Socaci, Maria-Ioana Socaciu, Melinda Fogarasi, Delia Michiu, Anamaria Mirela Jimborean, Vlad Mureşan, Simona Raluca Ionescu, Mihaela Ancuţa Rotar and Tullia Gallina Toschi

Foods 2023, 12(8), 1703; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12081703 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1652

Abstract

This study aimed to formulate a Gouda-type cheese from cow’s milk, flavored with lavender flower powder (0.5 g/L matured milk), ripened for 30 days at 14 °C and 85% relative humidity. Physicochemical, microbiological, and textural characteristics, as well as the volatile composition of [...] Read more.

This study aimed to formulate a Gouda-type cheese from cow’s milk, flavored with lavender flower powder (0.5 g/L matured milk), ripened for 30 days at 14 °C and 85% relative humidity. Physicochemical, microbiological, and textural characteristics, as well as the volatile composition of the control (CC—cheese without lavender) and lavender cheese (LC), were assessed at 10-day intervals of ripening. Consumers’ perception, acceptance, and purchase intention were only evaluated for ripened cheeses. Moisture and carbohydrate contents, the pH, cohesiveness, indexes of springiness and chewiness decreased during ripening in both CC and LC; however, protein, ash, and sodium chloride contents, titratable acidity, hardness, lactobacilli, streptococci, and volatiles increased. Fat and fat in dry matter contents, respectively, the energy value did not vary with ripening time in LC and increased in CC; gumminess decreased in CC and did not change in LC. Lavender flower powder significantly affected the cheese’s microbiological and sensory characteristics and volatile composition but did not considerably impact physicochemical and textural ones. Populations of lactobacilli and streptococci were substantially higher in LC compared to CC. The volatile profile of LC was dominated by terpene and terpenoids, and that of CC by haloalkanes. Sensory scores were slightly lower for LC than CC, even if it did not considerably affect consumers’ acceptance and purchase intention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Aflatoxins in Camel Milk from the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa: A Reduction Approach Using Probiotic Strains

by Tawfiq Alsulami, Mohamed G. Shehata, Hatem S. Ali, Abdulhakeem A. Alzahrani, Mohamed A. Fadol and Ahmed Noah Badr

Foods 2023, 12(8), 1666; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12081666 - 17 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1170

Abstract

Camel milk is known as a source of nutritional and health supplements. It is known to be rich in peptides and functional proteins. One main issue facing it is related to its contamination, mainly with aflatoxins. The present study aimed to evaluate camel [...] Read more.

Camel milk is known as a source of nutritional and health supplements. It is known to be rich in peptides and functional proteins. One main issue facing it is related to its contamination, mainly with aflatoxins. The present study aimed to evaluate camel milk samples from different regions while trying to reduce its toxicity using safe approaches based on probiotic bacteria. Collected samples of camel milk were sourced from two main regions: the Arabic peninsula and North Africa. Samples were tested for their contents of aflatoxins (B₁ and M₁) using two techniques to ensure desired contamination levels. Additionally, feed materials used in camel foods were evaluated. Applied techniques were also tested for their validation. The antioxidant activity of camel milk samples was determined through total phenolic content and antioxidant activity assays. Two strains of probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus NRC06 and Lactobacillus plantarum NRC21) were investigated for their activity against toxigenic fungi. The result revealed high contamination of aflatoxin M₁ for all samples investigated. Furthermore, cross-contamination with aflatoxin B₁ was recorded. Investigated bacteria were recorded according to their significant inhibition zones against fungal growth (11 to 40 mm). The antagonistic impacts were between 40% and 70% against toxigenic fungi. Anti-aflatoxigenic properties of bacterial strains in liquid media were recorded according to mycelia inhibition levels between 41 to 52.83% against Aspergillus parasiticus ITEM11 with an ability to reduce aflatoxin production between 84.39% ± 2.59 and 90.4% ± 1.32 from media. Bacteria removed aflatoxins from the spiked camel milk in cases involving individual toxin contamination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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10 pages, 273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution of Calcium, Phosphorus and Magnesium in Yak (Bos grunniens) Milk from the Qinghai Plateau in China

by Piero Franceschi, Wancheng Sun, Massimo Malacarne, Yihao Luo, Paolo Formaggioni, Francesca Martuzzi and Andrea Summer

Foods 2023, 12(7), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12071413 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1403

Abstract

This research was aimed to assess the distribution of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium within the casein micelles of yak milk. To this aim, nine bulk yak milk samples (Y-milk), collected in three yak farms located in the Chinese province of Qinghai, were compared [...] Read more.

This research was aimed to assess the distribution of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium within the casein micelles of yak milk. To this aim, nine bulk yak milk samples (Y-milk), collected in three yak farms located in the Chinese province of Qinghai, were compared to nine bulk cow milk samples used as a reference. A quite similar content of colloidal calcium (0.80 vs. 0.77 mmol/g of casein; p > 0.05), a higher content of magnesium (0.05 vs. 0.04 mmol/g of casein; p ≤ 0.01) and a lower content of colloidal phosphorus (0.48 vs. 0.56 mmol/g of casein; p ≤ 0.01) between yak and cow casein micelles were found. Moreover, the yak casein micelles showed a lower value of prosthetic phosphorus (0.20 vs. 0.26 mmol/g of casein; p ≤ 0.05) compared to the cow micelles. The lower values of colloidal and prosthetic phosphorus in yak casein micelles suggest that the yak casein is less phosphorylated than the cow one. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

14 pages, 1898 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microbiological, Physicochemical and Nutritional Properties of Fresh Cow Milk Treated with Industrial High-Pressure Processing (HPP) during Storage

by Shu Huey Lim, Nyuk Ling Chin, Alifdalino Sulaiman, Cheow Hwang Tay and Tak Hiong Wong

Foods 2023, 12(3), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12030592 - 31 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2904

Abstract

The safety, shelf life, and quality of fresh cow milk treated using industrial High-Pressure Processing (HPP) treatment at 600 MPa for 10 min was studied to identify the novelty of this non-thermal technology in milk processing. Changes in microbiological and physicochemical properties, including [...] Read more.

The safety, shelf life, and quality of fresh cow milk treated using industrial High-Pressure Processing (HPP) treatment at 600 MPa for 10 min was studied to identify the novelty of this non-thermal technology in milk processing. Changes in microbiological and physicochemical properties, including nutritional values of vitamins and amino acid profiles, were measured for a 60-day storage period at 6 °C +/− 1 °C. The HPP treatment produced milk that met all microbial safety requirements and exhibited a shelf life beyond 60 days in a hot and humid region. High physicochemical stability was achieved, with consistent pH and undetectable titratable acidity. The HPP treatment successfully retained all vitamins and minerals, including calcium (99.3%), phosphorus (99.4%), and magnesium (99.1%). However, the 60-day storage caused some degradation of Vitamin A (25%), B3 (91%), B5 (35%), B6 (80%), and C (85%), and minerals, including potassium (5%) and zinc (18%) when compared with fresh milk. This research has shown that the adoption of advanced treatment with HPP is very beneficial to the dairy industry in preserving milk quality in terms of its physicochemical and nutritional properties and extending its storage shelf life beyond 60 days. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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12 pages, 1573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Ability of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli to Grow in Raw Cow’s Milk Stored at Low Temperatures

by Lene Idland, Erik G. Bø-Granquist, Marina Aspholm and Toril Lindbäck

Foods 2022, 11(21), 3411; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11213411 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1937

Abstract

Despite the lack of scientific evidence, some consumers assert that raw milk is a natural food with nutritional and immunological properties superior to pasteurized milk. This has led to the increased popularity of unpasteurized cow milk (UPM) and disregard for the risks of [...] Read more.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence, some consumers assert that raw milk is a natural food with nutritional and immunological properties superior to pasteurized milk. This has led to the increased popularity of unpasteurized cow milk (UPM) and disregard for the risks of being exposed to zoonotic infections. Dairy cattle are healthy carriers of Shiga toxin (Stx)-producing E. coli (STEC), and contaminated UPM has caused STEC outbreaks worldwide. The association between STEC, carrying the eae (E. coli attachment effacement) gene, and severe diseases is well-established. We have previously isolated four eae positive STEC isolates from two neighboring dairy farms in the Southeast of Norway. A whole genome analysis revealed that isolates from different farms exhibited nearly identical genetic profiles. To explore the risks associated with drinking UPM, we examined the ability of the isolates to produce Stx and their growth in UPM at different temperatures. All the isolates produced Stx and one of the isolates was able to propagate in UPM at 8 °C (p < 0.02). Altogether, these results highlight the risk for STEC infections associated with the consumption of UPM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Easy and Cheap Kiwi-Based Preparation as Vegetable Milk Coagulant: Preliminary Study at the Laboratory Scale

by Fabrizio Domenico Nicosia, Ivana Puglisi, Alessandra Pino, Andrea Baglieri, Rosita La Cava, Cinzia Caggia, Antonio Fernandes de Carvalho and Cinzia Lucia Randazzo

Foods 2022, 11(15), 2255; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11152255 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1953

Abstract

In the present study, a kiwifruit aqueous extract was developed and used as a coagulant enzyme in cheesemaking. In detail, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) was used to investigate the presence of actinidin, the kiwifruit enzyme involved in κ-casein hydrolysis, in different tissues (pulp, [...] Read more.

In the present study, a kiwifruit aqueous extract was developed and used as a coagulant enzyme in cheesemaking. In detail, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) was used to investigate the presence of actinidin, the kiwifruit enzyme involved in κ-casein hydrolysis, in different tissues (pulp, peel, and whole fruit) of ripe and unripe kiwifruits. Data revealed the presence of the enzyme both in the peel and in the pulp of the fruit. Although the aqueous extract obtained from the kiwifruit peel was able to hydrolyze semi-skimmed milk, it did not break down κ-casein. The aqueous extract obtained from the pulp showed a hydrolytic activity toward both κ-casein and semi-skimmed milk. The values for milk-clotting and proteolytic activity of the kiwifruit pulp extract were evaluated at different temperatures and pH parameters in order to obtain a high value of the MCA/PA ratio; we found that a temperature of 40 °C in combination with a pH value of 5.5 allowed us to obtain the best performance. In addition, the data revealed a higher hydrolytic activity of the enzymatic preparation from ripe kiwifruits than that from unripe ones, suggesting the use of the extract from pulp of ripe kiwifruits in the laboratory-scale cheesemaking. The data showed that 3% (v/v) of the ripe kiwifruit pulp extract determined a curd yield of 20.27%, comparable to chymosin yield. In conclusion, the extraction procedure for kiwifruit aqueous extract proposed in the present study was shown to be a fast, cheap, chemical-free, and ecofriendly technology as a plant coagulant for cheese manufacturing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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23 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Production, Composition and Nutritional Properties of Organic Milk: A Critical Review

by Kevin Linehan, Dhrati V. Patangia, Reynolds Paul Ross and Catherine Stanton

Foods 2024, 13(4), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13040550 - 11 Feb 2024

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Abstract

Milk is one of the most valuable products in the food industry with most milk production throughout the world being carried out using conventional management, which includes intensive and traditional systems. The intensive use of fertilizers, antibiotics, pesticides and concerns regarding animal health [...] Read more.

Milk is one of the most valuable products in the food industry with most milk production throughout the world being carried out using conventional management, which includes intensive and traditional systems. The intensive use of fertilizers, antibiotics, pesticides and concerns regarding animal health and the environment have given increasing importance to organic dairy and dairy products in the last two decades. This review aims to compare the production, nutritional, and compositional properties of milk produced by conventional and organic dairy management systems. We also shed light on the health benefits of milk and the worldwide scenario of the organic dairy production system. Most reports suggest milk has beneficial health effects with very few, if any, adverse effects reported. Organic milk is reported to confer additional benefits due to its lower omega-6–omega-3 ratio, which is due to the difference in feeding practices, with organic cows predominantly pasture fed. Despite the testified animal, host, and environmental benefits, organic milk production is difficult in several regions due to the cost-intensive process and geographical conditions. Finally, we offer perspectives for a better future and highlight knowledge gaps in the organic dairy management system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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19 pages, 678 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fermented Mare Milk and Its Microorganisms for Human Consumption and Health

by Francesca Martuzzi, Piero Franceschi and Paolo Formaggioni

Foods 2024, 13(3), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13030493 - 03 Feb 2024

Viewed by 997

Abstract

Mare milk is consumed by approximatively 30 million people in the world. In countries in Asia and East Europe, mare milk is mainly consumed as source of fermented products, called koumiss, airag or chigee, alcoholic beverages obtained by means of a culture of [...] Read more.

Mare milk is consumed by approximatively 30 million people in the world. In countries in Asia and East Europe, mare milk is mainly consumed as source of fermented products, called koumiss, airag or chigee, alcoholic beverages obtained by means of a culture of bacteria and lactose-fermenting yeasts. Recent research concerning mare milk and its derivatives deals mainly with their potential employment for human health. Studies about the isolation and characterization of Lactobacillus spp. and yeasts from koumiss have been aimed at assessing the potential functional properties of these micro-organisms and to find their employment for the industrial processing of mare milk. The aim of this literature review is to summarize recent research about microorganisms in fermented mare milk products and their potential functional properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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18 pages, 1720 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mild Heat Treatment and Biopreservatives for Artisanal Raw Milk Cheeses: Reducing Microbial Spoilage and Extending Shelf-Life through Thermisation, Plant Extracts and Lactic Acid Bacteria

by Beatriz Nunes Silva, José António Teixeira, Vasco Cadavez and Ursula Gonzales-Barron

Foods 2023, 12(17), 3206; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12173206 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1776

Abstract

The microbial quality of raw milk artisanal cheeses is not always guaranteed due to the possible presence of pathogens in raw milk that can survive during manufacture and maturation. In this work, an overview of the existing information concerning lactic acid bacteria and [...] Read more.

The microbial quality of raw milk artisanal cheeses is not always guaranteed due to the possible presence of pathogens in raw milk that can survive during manufacture and maturation. In this work, an overview of the existing information concerning lactic acid bacteria and plant extracts as antimicrobial agents is provided, as well as thermisation as a strategy to avoid pasteurisation and its negative impact on the sensory characteristics of artisanal cheeses. The mechanisms of antimicrobial action, advantages, limitations and, when applicable, relevant commercial applications are discussed. Plant extracts and lactic acid bacteria appear to be effective approaches to reduce microbial contamination in artisanal raw milk cheeses as a result of their constituents (for example, phenolic compounds in plant extracts), production of antimicrobial substances (such as organic acids and bacteriocins, in the case of lactic acid bacteria), or other mechanisms and their combinations. Thermisation was also confirmed as an effective heat inactivation strategy, causing the impairment of cellular structures and functions. This review also provides insight into the potential constraints of each of the approaches, hence pointing towards the direction of future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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23 pages, 1192 KiB

Open AccessReview

Combination of Milk and Plant Proteins to Develop Novel Food Systems: What Are the Limits?

by Luis Gustavo Lima Nascimento, Davide Odelli, Antônio Fernandes de Carvalho, Evandro Martins, Guillaume Delaplace, Paulo Peres de sá Peixoto Júnior, Naaman Francisco Nogueira Silva and Federico Casanova

Foods 2023, 12(12), 2385; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12122385 - 15 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3833

Abstract

In the context of a diet transition from animal protein to plant protein, both for sustainable and healthy scopes, innovative plant-based foods are being developing. A combination with milk proteins has been proposed as a strategy to overcome the scarce functional and sensorial [...] Read more.

In the context of a diet transition from animal protein to plant protein, both for sustainable and healthy scopes, innovative plant-based foods are being developing. A combination with milk proteins has been proposed as a strategy to overcome the scarce functional and sensorial properties of plant proteins. Based on this mixture were designed several colloidal systems such as suspensions, gels, emulsions, and foams which can be found in many food products. This review aims to give profound scientific insights on the challenges and opportunities of developing such binary systems which could soon open a new market category in the food industry. The recent trends in the formulation of each colloidal system, as well as their limits and advantages are here considered. Lastly, new approaches to improve the coexistence of both milk and plant proteins and how they affect the sensorial profile of food products are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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19 pages, 3015 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Milk Quality Conceptualization: A Systematic Review of Consumers’, Farmers’, and Processing Experts’ Views

by Greta Castellini, Serena Barello and Albino Claudio Bosio

Foods 2023, 12(17), 3215; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12173215 - 26 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1825

Abstract

Milk consumption has traditionally been recognized as a fundamental element of global dietary patterns due to its perceived nutritional advantages. Nonetheless, a substantial decrease in milk consumption has been identified within diverse populations in recent times. Specifically, consumers’ expectations and representations of milk [...] Read more.

Milk consumption has traditionally been recognized as a fundamental element of global dietary patterns due to its perceived nutritional advantages. Nonetheless, a substantial decrease in milk consumption has been identified within diverse populations in recent times. Specifically, consumers’ expectations and representations of milk quality have undergone notable transformations, contributing to the observed reduction in consumption. The objective of this systematic review was to conduct a comprehensive examination and categorization of the conceptual attributes associated with milk quality, considering the representations of citizen-consumers, farmers, and processing experts. This review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The titles and abstracts of 409 articles were screened, and 20 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. The results demonstrate the existence of a dual articulation in the conceptual definition of milk quality. Farmers and processing experts exhibited a relatively similar representation of milk quality, focusing on technical indicators. In contrast, citizen-consumers held more simplistic and subjective concepts that are challenging to quantify. This study emphasized the critical need for establishing a platform for communication and knowledge exchange to foster shared representations and expectations regarding milk quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability)

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