The co-fermentation of Actinomucor elegans and Monascus purpureus for the production of meat flavor with soybean protein

This study aimed to prepare meat flavor essence through Monascus purpureus and Actinomucor elegans co-fermentation. The optimal fermentation conditions were determined based on the changes in physicochemical properties during the fermentation process, combined with sensory evaluation. Subsequently, the flavor components of the meat flavor essence were analyzed through solid phase microextraction after undergoing the Maillard reaction from the fermentation broth. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis identified 62 volatile compounds, among which 25 aroma-active substances were detected by aroma extraction dilution analysis/gas chromatography–olfactometry. By calculating the odor activity values (OAVs), seven aroma-active compounds with OAVs > 1 were identified as the most significant contributors to the aroma. Through aroma reconstitution and omission experiments, the accuracy of these key flavor compounds was verified, elucidating each substance's contribution to the essence's overall aroma. This study serves as a foundation for future investigations into the correlation between the flavor of fermented flavorings and their precursor substances, optimizing the mixed-culture fermentation process and enhancing the quality of meat flavor essences.