Contribution of starter lactococci and adjunct lactobacilli to proteolysis, volatile profiles and sensory characteristics of washed-curd cheese

Washed-curd cheeses manufactured with either Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis IL416 or Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris AM2 were used to test the role of six Lactobacillus strains from the CNRZ collection as adjunct cultures. Proteolysis and volatile profile determinations were performed on all cheeses after 28 days of ripening; a trained panel assessed sensory characteristics. We observed that overall, the lactococcal starter strains had a major influence on cheese taste and texture. Control cheeses manufactured with the strain IL416 were mild. Lactobacilli adjunct addition to cheeses manufactured with the strain IL416 had a strong effect on their flavour attributes. In contrast, control cheeses manufactured with the strain AM2 had greater flavour intensities and were saltier and more acidic. These cheeses were more affected in their texture profile and overall flavour intensity, and to a lesser extent in their flavour profile by lactobacilli addition. In summary, while the major cheese characteristics are determined by the starter strain used, addition of lactobacilli adjuncts L. plantarum 1572, L. plantarum 1310 and L. casei 1227 can affect flavour and texture of washed-curd cheese products.