Proteolysis is the most complex of the three primary events of cheese ripening, and
is probably the most important for development of flavor and texture. Proteolysis
contributes directly to flavor via peptides, amino acids, and derivatives of amino
acids (amines, acids, thiols, thioesters, etc.), an increased release of sapid compounds
during mastication, a pH increase by formation of NH3, and changes in texture from
degradation of the protein matrix. Proteolysis is responsible for the generation of
the smoother softer texture of the mature cheeses. Full flavor is probably caused by
correct balance of a mixture of aromatic compounds (component balance theory).
The products of primary proteolysis, the water insoluble fraction consisting of proteins
and large peptides, have no flavor or aroma. Secondary proteolysis includes
the water soluble nonvolatile fraction consisting of small peptides, amino acids, and
organic acids, which contain most of the compounds responsible for flavor, whereas
the aroma is principally found in the volatile fraction.13,15