Vol. 70 No: 4

Title:
Heat-Induced Alteration of Methanethiol Emission from Anaerobic Broccoli Florets

Authors:
D.M. OBENLAND, R.E. RIJ and L.H. AUNG

pp: 657-664

Abstract:
The influence of heat applied before and during the imposition of anaerobic conditions on methanethiol (MT) production of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. Italica group) was studied. Ten minute heat treatments of temperatures ranging from 40 to 60°C imposed on broccoli florets prior to the initiation of 18 h of anaerobic conditions strikingly altered the course of MT production and respiration. Heat treatment at 40 and 45°C greatly diminished MT production compared with 25°C during the first 6 h. In contrast, MT production was stimulated at 55°C and completely eliminated at 60°C. The respiratory rate of broccoli treated at 50°C was increased, whereas at 45, 55 and 60°C the rates were decreased compared with that of 25°C. The rate of respiration at 40°C was similar to that at 25°C. The amount of hydrogen sulfide (HS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), two other sulfur gases also emitted under anaerobic conditions, was increased by heat treatment. Heat treatment given concurrently with the formation of MT during 24 h of anaerobiosis increased MT production and respiration. The relative amounts of HS, DMDS and MT were unchanged by heat treatment. The results indicated that the mechanism for MT production in broccoli is highly sensitive to alteration by heat.

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