that disturbs the weak gel network formed at pH 5.3e5.2, allowing
the pumping of partially fermented yogurt without any negative
effects on the final product when compared with yogurt set in the
original containers. The present findings indicate that the introduction
of a cold step (approximately 4 C) during the fermentation
process (at approximately pH 5.2) is an efficient method to improve
the techno-functional properties of fat-free yogurt, especially its
resistance to syneresis, without the need to add stabilizers or gums
or to use exo-polysaccharide producing starter cultures, which may
be considered undesirable by consumers.