Decoding the Effects of High Hydrostatic Pressure and High-Temperature Short-Time Sterilization on the Volatile Aroma Profile of Red Raspberry Juice

Abstract

The loss of distinctive aromas due to sterilization significantly hinders efforts to enhance the sensory quality of fruit and vegetable juices. This study aimed to elucidate the impacts of high-hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and high-temperature short-time (HTST) sterilization methods on the loss of C6 aldehyde aroma-active compounds in red raspberry juice. External standard quantification and quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) revealed a notable decline in the levels of hexanal and (Z)-3-hexenal following the HHP and HTST treatments (p < 0.05), resulting in a marked attenuation of the grassy aroma characteristic of red raspberry juice. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of the precursors, pivotal enzymes, intermediates, and downstream aromas within the fatty acid metabolism pathway in different raspberry juice samples indicated that the C6 aldehydes loss induced by HHP and HTST sterilizations was primarily ascribed to the competitive inhibition of β-oxidation and the hindered enzymatic oxidation of fatty acids. These insights suggest that modifying sterilization protocols and enhancing enzymatic stability may help preserve the aroma integrity of raspberry juice. Our findings offer practical guidance for optimizing juice processing techniques to maintain flavor.