Influence of the Application of Rosemary Essential Oil (Salvia rosmarinus) on the Sensory Characteristics and Microbiological Quality of Minimally Processed Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata)

Abstract

Pumpkin (P) production in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, is of high quality. The productis sold whole and fresh, and is traditionally consumed after being cooked in water. Due to itspleasant flavor (semi-sweet), it is widely accepted among consumers, being a potentially versatileproduct to be consumed fresh or minimally processed (MP). Processing increases food’s susceptibility to microbial spoilage, making it necessary to use sanitizers. In this work, the effect of different application methodologies at different concentrations of rosemary essential oil (REO) on the sensory characteristics and microbiological quality of grated P was evaluated. The product was washed, sanitized, cut, peeled, grated and centrifuged, and then REO was superficially incorporated in two concentrations (4 and 8 L/mL), applied in three ways: sprayed (TA), immersion (TI) and bystrips embedded in EO being adhered to the storage container (TV). The product was subsequentlystored at 5 C in sealed polypropylene bags of 35 m. In addition, an immersion treatment withNaClO-100 ppm-3 min and a control without any additive were included. Samples were taken at24 h and 8 days of storage, evaluating mesophilic aerobic microorganisms (MA), psychrophilic (Psy), enterobacteria (E) and mold and yeasts (MY). Sensory evaluation was carried out by trained judges, determining that aroma and flavor were the critical attributes for acceptability. At the end of storage, microbiological analysis showed that REO treatments presented levels of 107 CFU/g, similar to NaCLO treatment, except TI with both concentrations, which was more effective in inhibiting the development of Psy and MY. Regarding aroma evaluation, at 8 days all treatments were acceptable, with the exception of TI and TV (8 L/mL), while for flavor all treatments were acceptable with the exception of TI for both concentrations. Therefore, the application of TA and TV treatments at the lowest concentration could be considered for further studies to increase the shelf life of MP P.