In-vitro and in-vivo flavour release from 21 different apple cultivars was studied using proton transfer
reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometry (PTR-ToF-MS) with a focus on the relationship between texture
and volatile organic compound (VOC) emission. Generally, firm-juicy cultivars had a shorter time
to first swallow (Tswal) and a higher number of swallows (Nswal), while softer-mealy cultivars had a longer
Tswal and a lower Nswal. Firm-juicy cultivars containing high VOC concentrations had a short time to maximum
intensity (Tmax) owing to a shorter Tswal and a higher Nswal as juice was released during mastication.
Swallowing increased VOC flow through the nasal cavity. These results differ from previous flavour
release studies with gel/gel-like model systems as juiciness/release of fluids is not a factor in such matrices.
The current study, therefore, highlights the benefits of using in-vivo analysis to gain a better understanding
of flavour release in real food products.