Abstract:In this study, Maillard reaction products were prepared using cod peptides, D-xylose, and dihydromyricetin (DMY). The effects of DMY on the flavor profile of the reaction products under different pH conditions were investigated using UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, free amino acid analysis, GC-MS, and electronic nose detection. The results indicated that higher pH values promote the Maillard reaction process. The addition of DMY reduced the reactivity between D-xylose and cod peptides, decreasing the formation of furan and pyrazine volatile compounds, while promoting the formation of fresh-smelling volatile compounds such as D-limonene and isoborneol. Furthermore, under the influence of DMY, the total amount of free amino acids in the D-xylose/cod peptide reaction system decreased. At pH values of 5, 7, and 9, the proportion of bitter amino acids was low, whereas the proportions of umami and sweet amino acids were high. Overall, at pH 9, the flavor substrate prepared with the addition of DMY exhibited less fishy odor, a fresh plant aroma, relatively lower bitterness, sufficient umami, and good harmony among the various flavors.