Discrimination of doenjang samples using a mass spectrometry-based electronic nose and human sensory preference testing

Doenjang samples were discriminated using a mass spectrometry-based electronic nose (MS-E-nose) and discriminant function analysis (DFA). Human sensory preference testing was performed using the same samples. DFA plots indicated classification of doenjang samples into 3 groups. Samples with high discriminate function (DF) 1 and low DF2 scores contained fewer volatile compounds. Grouping results using the MS-E-nose and human sensory preference testing were compared. Fully mashed doenjang samples with more diverse and intense volatile compounds showed low DF1 and high preference scores. DF2 scores for selected samples showed positive correlations to the amount of sample. The MS-E-nose was a useful tool for discrimination of the aroma of doenjang samples and for confirmation of changes in the aroma intensities of doenjang samples.