Abstract:Effects of rehydration conditions on the quality of dehydrated Toona sinensis were studied by analyzing the aromatic components, color, rehydration ratio, as well as nitrite and vitamin C content. Results showed that 40 ℃ rehydration temperature was favorable for retention of the characteristics of dehydrated T. sinensis as well as its major aromatic components (terpenes and sulfur-containing compounds). When rehydration time was prolonged the L* of dehydrated T. sinensis was reduced, whereas rehydration temperature had no significant effect on the L*. The value of a* decreased at the beginning of rehydration and subsequently increased, wherein a* decreased to a minimum at 30 min, that is, the greenness was at a maximum, while b* was relatively low. a* and b* were observed to be the lowest at a rehydration temperature of 40 ℃. Dehydrated T. sinensis, rehydrated at 40 ℃ with solid:liquid ratio of 1:60 and 30 to 40 min soaking time, showed a higher rehydration ratio and nitrite dissolution rate. Vitamin C retention rate decreased significantly at the beginning of rehydration and levelled off after 20 min. Reducing rehydration temperature and shortening rehydration time moderately were beneficial for protecting the color, aroma and nutrients of rehydrated T. sinensis, while also ensuring its safety. These results provide scientific and reasonable potential for utilization of T. sinensis, which is a unique resource in China.
