The effect of whey protein-enriched fractions on the physical and sensory properties of frankfurters

Four Beta-lactoglobulin (beta-lg) enriched fractions containing different mineral contents were prepared and evaluated in frankfurters. Frankfurters were assessed for cook loss, water holding capacity (WHC), textural and sensory characteristics. The addition of the beta-lg fractions reduced the cook loss (p < 0.001) in comparison to the control (6.63% vs 3.98%). The fractions (beta-lg 1 and 2) with the lowest calcium level significantly reduced WHC (p < 0.01). The beta-lg fractions had no detrimental effect on the sensory characteristics (p > 0.05). All of the fractions increased the TPA value of hardness in comparison to the control (p < 0.001) while the springiness decreased in the fractions (p < 0.001) with the lowest mineral level. This study showed that the mineral composition of the beta-lactoglobulin fractions affected cook loss, tenderness and hardness (TPA) of the frankfurters and the addition of the beta-lactoglobulin enriched fraction did not affect the organoleptic quality of frankfurters in comparison to the control. This study shows the potential for next generation whey protein fractions and their application in meat products. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.