Many customers prefer goji berry pulp, well-known for its high nutritional content, over fresh goji berries. However, there is limited research on its sensory lexicon and distinctive flavor compounds. This study focused on developing a sensory lexicon for goji berry pulp and characterizing its aroma by sensory and instrumental analysis. Sensory characteristics of goji berry pulp were evaluated by our established lexicon. A total of 83 aromatic compounds in goji berry pulp were quantified using HS-SPME-GC-Orbitrap-MS. By employing OAV in combination, we identified 17 aroma-active compounds as the key ingredients in goji berry pulp. Then, we identified the potentially significant contributors to the aroma of goji berry pulp by combining principal component analysis and partial least squares regression (PLSR) models of aroma compounds and sensory attributes, which included 3-ethylphenol, methyl caprylate, 2-hydroxy-4-methyl ethyl valerate, benzeneacetic acid, ethyl ester, hexanal, (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal, acetylpyrazine, butyric acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, 2-methyl-1-propanol, 1-pentanol, phenylethyl alcohol, and 2-nonanone. This study provides a theoretical basis for improving the quality control and processing technology of goji berry pulp.
This study assessed the chemosensory characteristics of Chardonnay wines from the eastern foothills of the Ningxia Helan Mountain, China. Using Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) and Descriptive Analysis (DA), 29 wines were categorized into lively (QTX and XX sub-regions, marked by citrus and floral aroma) and implicit (YN sub-region, marked by truffle and kerosene aroma) aroma styles. GC-Quadrupole-MS and GC-Orbitrap-MS identified 191 volatile compounds. Subsequent OPLS-DA analysis underscored those volatile compounds, including 1-hexanol, 2-phenylethyl ester, butanedioic acid, diethyl ester, and phenylacetaldehyde, likely form the fundamental volatile framework of the distinct aroma styles. HPLC-QqQ-MS/MS analysis identified 26 non-volatile phenolic compounds. Wines from the YN region exhibited a notable yellowish hue, likely due to their higher flavanol content. This study offers insights into Chardonnay wines' chemistry and sensory traits, guiding vintners to optimize viticulture and oenology practices, and empowering consumers to select wines based on unique aromas and quality.