What You Need to Know
The process relies on controlled thermal dehydration to lower water activity below 0.6, thereby inhibiting microbial growth. During drying, protein hydrolysis releases free amino acids and peptides that contribute umami, while phospholipids remain amphiphilic, enabling later emulsion formation. Temperatures above 70 °C trigger Maillard browning and loss of volatile flavor compounds, so careful temperature control preserves aroma and nutrients.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Water removal and protein hydrolysis