Microbial quality assessment of minimally processed pineapple using GCMS and FTIR in tandem with chemometrics.

Microbial quality is the critical parameter determining the safety of refrigerated perishables. Traditional methods used for assessing microbial quality are time consuming and labour intensive. Thus rapid, non-destructive methods that can accurately predict microbial status is warranted.

Antioxidant Compounds in Traditional Indian Pickles May Prevent the Process-Induced Formation of Benzene.

Pickles in the Indian market contain ascorbic acid from the raw material used and benzoate as an added preservative that are involved in the formation of benzene in soft drinks. In this work, 24 market pickle samples were surveyed for benzene content, as well as its precursors and other constituents that influence its formation. The analysis showed that pickle samples were high in acid content (low pH) and showed significant amount of ascorbic acid, minerals (Cu and Fe), and benzoic acid present in them.