Ripening changes in Cephalotyre ‘Ras’ cheese slurries

Abstract

SUMMARYCephalotyre (Ras) cheese slurries developed within 7 d of storage at 30 °C a flavour similar to that of conventional Ras cheese ripened for 2 months. Addition of a proteinase/lipase mixture, trace elements or Na citrate to fresh cheese slurries before storage at 30 °C enhanced flavour development. Additive-treated slurries showed after storage for 5 d at 30 °C a strong flavour similar to that of 3–4 months Ras cheese with increased protein degradation, acidity development, volatile fatty acid formation and higher bacterial counts. The effectiveness of the additives in enhancing flavour development and related chemical changes was in the order: proteinaseòlipase mixture > trace elements > Na citrate.