A multiplicative approach to optimize the consumer properties of quick-frozen semifinished products from cultivated champignons

Abstract

It is possible to maximise the consumer properties of grown fruit and vegetable products, significantly reduce their losses during the life cycle, and satisfy the public demand for products ready for consumption by using different preservation methods, particularly freezing. It has been found that the freezing of mushrooms without pretreatment does not provide a high-quality finished product. It justifies the expediency of mushroom pretreatment before freezing to stabilize their consumer properties. The inhibition effect of high temperatures on the oxidoreductase activity has been confirmed, ensuring the high preservation of cultivated champignons' natural color and consistency. A quasimetric assessment of the quality of quick-frozen cultivated mushrooms was performed, and the optimal heat treatment parameters were determined. Before freezing, blanched mushrooms' efficiency with polysaccharides has been scientifically proved. Rational concentrations and types of polysaccharides for mushroom processing have been determined. It has been established that blanching champignons in 0.1% citric acid solution followed by xanthan gum (0.2%), guar gum (0.1%), and lamidan (0.1%) processing ensure stability of consumer properties of quick-frozen semifinished products made of cultured champignons. After defrosting, they have an attractive appearance, natural light brown colour, elastic consistency, well-expressed mushroom flavour, and harmonious taste.