Soft cheeses are coagulated milk products obtained through acidification or applying a combination of acids and heat. In this research, in order to improve technological characteristics, the effects of different coagulants (salt and acids) and process parameters (temperature and homogenization pressure) on the organoleptic, textural, and functional characteristics of soft (unripened) cheese were investigated. The results revealed significant differences between cheeses coagulated with acid and mineral salt regarding protein recovery, fat content, and moisture content (p < .05). Acidic coagulants (74%-94%) resulted in higher cheese yield compared to mineral salt (66%-88%). Texture analysis indicated that the cheese produced with acetic acid had a firmer texture, while samples treated with citric acid exhibited better cohesiveness. Cheeses produced with minerals displayed more acceptable organoleptic characteristics regarding flavor, odor, and texture. This study offers valuable technological insights into cheese production with the highest yield and maximum acceptability.
Keywords: acid–heat coagulation; cheese yield; organoleptic characteristic; soft cheese.
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