Formation of aroma compounds during long-term frozen storage of unblanched leek (Allium ampeloprasum Var. Bulga) as affected by packaging atmosphere and slice thickness

Content of aroma compounds and catalytic activity of lipoxygenase (LOX), hydroperoxide lyase (HPL), and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) were analyzed in 4- and 15-mm unblanched leek slices packed in atmospheric air (4- and 15-mm) or 100% nitrogen (N) (only 15-mm) seven times during 12 months of frozen storage (12M). Total amount of sulfur compounds was influenced by storage time, slice thickness, and atmosphere (concentration in fresh 4-mm slices = 17.8 mg/L, 4-mm 12M = 3.48 mg/L, fresh 15-mm slices = 2.48 mg/L, 15-mm 12M = 0.418 mg/L and 15-mm N 12M = 1.81 mg/L). The 4-mm slices significantly developed the most aldehydes after 12M (total amount = 9.28 mg/L) compared to 15-mm 12M (6.49 mg/L) and 15-mm N 12M (4.33 mg/L). LOX activity is positively influenced by nitrogen packaging, and HPL activity is influenced by slice thickness, whereas ADH is unaffected by both parameters.