Abstract:
In this study, the effects of cemen paste with lyophilized red cabbage water extract (LRCWE) on the quality characteristics of pastirma were studied. Cemen paste with LRCWE concentrations of 0.0%, 0.8%, 1.0%, and 1.2% were used for pastirma production. Pastirma was stored at 4 degrees C for 150 days. Thea* values of external and sliced surfaces and sensorial scores were higher in the pastirma added with 1.0% and/or 1.2% LRCWE during processing and storage. LRCWE addition reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) (p < .01) and pH (p < .01) values, while protein oxidation, moisture, and microbiological counts did not change (p > .05) in pastirma production. However, TBARS (p < .01), pH (p < .01), and protein oxidation (p < .01) values increased during storage. Practical applications Cemening (treatment of dry cured meat with cemen paste) is an important stage in pastirma production as it affects the quality of pastirma. Cemen paste especially affects the color of pastirma. Therefore, synthetic dyes are added to cemen paste to improve the color of pastirma. In addition, the lipid oxidation in pastirma increases during storage. This research could be useful for the food industry and consumers to know that lyophilized red cabbage water extract (LRCWE) is a more suitable natural coloring and antioxidant agent for pastirma cemen paste. In this way, the quality and functional characteristics of pastirma shall be increased during processing and storage.