Cross-linking duration impacts on Hatay cheeses with microbial transglutaminase enzyme

GÜZELER N., Özbek Ç., Mert H.

International Journal of Dairy Technology, 2024 (SCI-Expanded) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2024
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/1471-0307.13044
  • Journal Name: International Journal of Dairy Technology
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, ABI/INFORM, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, INSPEC, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: Cheese characteristics, Enzyme modification, Traditional cheese, Transglutaminase
  • Çukurova University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The study aimed to enhance Hatay cheese texture using microbial transglutaminase enzyme (mTG). Cheeses were manufactured using milk treated with mTG for different durations (30, 45 and 60 min) and assessed over 60 days. Longer treatment increased yield (18.79–20.81%) and hardness but reduced springiness. Composition, proteolysis and adhesiveness remained unaffected. Electrophoresis showed β-casein and αs1-casein declines during storage, with minor changes in αs1-casein's breakdown product. Microbial transglutaminase enzyme created a denser protein network, visible in SEM, resulting in a compact structure. Sensory analysis favoured the 60-min treatment. Overall, mTG improved Hatay cheese quality by modifying texture without major compositional changes.