Description
Protein coagulation and denaturation are thermal processes that unfold polypeptide chains and cause them to aggregate into a three‑dimensional network, forming the texture of many cooked foods.
Technical
During heating, the hydrophobic core of proteins is disrupted, exposing hydrophobic residues that drive aggregation. The process is governed by temperature, pH, ionic strength, and time, which together determine the rate of unfolding and the mechanical properties of the resulting matrix. Salt and acid can shift the denaturation temperature and influence the firmness of the final product.
Science
Primary Reaction
Protein unfolding followed by aggregation into a network
Parameters
Temperature
°C to °C range
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()