
DL-Alanine is the racemic form of α-alanine, possessing unique physicochemical properties. It does not rotate the plane of polarized light, making it optically inactive. DL-alanine not only has a sweet taste but also interacts with other chemical flavor enhancers to enhance the overall flavor profile. It has shown significant effects in pickled food products.
Ⅰ.Applications of DL-Alanine in Pickled Foods
1. Enhancing Permeability
DL-alanine has the property of enhancing the permeability of substances, which accelerates the penetration of seasonings into pickled ingredients, thereby shortening the pickling time.
2. Improving Flavor
DL-alanine can increase the umami and mouthfeel of food, improving its overall flavor. In pickled foods, it works synergistically with salt and other seasonings to make pickles or sweet pickled vegetables more delicious.
Additionally, dl-alanine can improve the taste of artificial sweeteners and modify the acidity of organic acids, further enhancing the flavor of vinegar and other seasonings.
3. Improving Pickling Efficiency
Because dl-alanine accelerates the penetration of seasonings, it can improve the efficiency of pickling, reducing the time required for the pickling process.
Ⅱ.Considerations for Using DL-Alanine in Pickled Foods
1. Concentration Control
When using dl-alanine as a food additive in pickling, it is important to follow food safety regulations and guidelines, ensuring that it is used at the appropriate concentration.
2. Safety Evaluation
DL-alanine should undergo a safety assessment to ensure it is harmless to human health and meets relevant food safety standards.
3. Compatibility with Other Additives
In pickled foods, dl-alanine can be used in combination with other additives, but care should be taken to avoid interactions that could result in undesirable effects.
DL-alanine has significant effects in pickled foods, enhancing permeability, improving flavor, and increasing pickling efficiency. However, when using it, attention should be given to concentration control, safety evaluation, and compatibility with other additives.