Flavor and Functional Analysis of Lactobacillus plantarum Fermented Apricot Juice

Abstract

The small white apricot is a juicy, delicious fruit with a short shelf life. Slight fermentation can significantly promote the flavors and nutrient value of apricot juice. This study used high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) to examine the physicochemical properties, nutritive value and flavor substances of apricot juice fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum LP56. Fermentation significantly increased lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and their product lactic acid, adding probiotic benefits to fermented apricot juice. In addition, the total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity increased, while the levels of soluble solids and organic acids decreased. Gallic acid, 3-caffeoylquinic acid and rutin mainly contributed to the antioxidant activity of fermented apricot juice. Alcohols, aldehyde, acid, ester, etc., were the main volatile compounds. Among the flavors, 12 substances with high odor activity values (OAV > 1) were the key aroma-producing compounds with fruit, pine and citrus flavors. In conclusion, this study shows that L. plantarum LP56 fermentation can improve the nutritional value and aroma characteristics of apricot juice.