Effect of partial NaCl substitution with KCl on the texture profile, microstructure, and sensory properties of low-moisture mozzarella cheese

The effect of partial substitution of NaCl with KCl on texture profile, soluble Ca, K, Na, and P, and microstructure of low-moisture mozzarella cheese (LMMC) was investigated. LMMC batches were prepared using four combinations of NaCl and KCl salt viz., NaCl only, NaCl:KCl, 3:1, 1:1 and 1:3 (w/w); all used at of 46 g/kg curd and plasticised in 4% brine containing the above salt mixtures. Texture profile, microstructure, and percentages of soluble Ca, K, Na, and P were determined. There were no significant differences in hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and gumminess among the experimental LMMC batches. Environmental scanning electron microscopy images showed compact and homogeneous structure of LMMC at day 27 of storage; however, no significant difference was observed among the experimental LMMC batches. Hardness increased significantly in all experimental LMMC during storage. LMMC salted with NaCl/KCl mixtures had almost similar sensory properties compared with the control. There was no significant difference in creaminess, bitterness, saltiness, sour-acid, and vinegary taste among the experimental LMMC at the same storage period.