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Flavor Formation and Character in Cocoa and Chocolate: A Critical Review

Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
Alistaiar Paterson, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
Mark Fowler, Nestle Product Technology Centre York
Angela Ryan, Nestle Product Technology York

Abstract

Chocolate characters not only originate in flavor precursors present in cocoa beans, but are generated during post-harvest treatments and transformed into desirable odor notes in the manufacturing processes. Complex biochemical modifications of bean constituents are further altered by thermal reactions in roasting and conching and in alkalization. However the extent to which the inherent bean constituents from the cocoa genotype, environmental factors, post-harvest treatment and processing technologies influence chocolate flavor formation and relationships with final flavor quality, has not been clear. With increasing speciality niche products in chocolate confectionery, greater understanding of factors contributing to variations in flavor character would have significant commercial implications.

Suggested Citation

Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, Alistaiar Paterson, Mark Fowler, and Angela Ryan. "Flavor Formation and Character in Cocoa and Chocolate: A Critical Review" Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition 48.9 (2008): 840-857.
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/emmanueloheneafoakwa/89