Effect of puffing treatment on volatile components of green tea explored by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-olfactometry

The effect of puffing treatment on the volatile components of green tea has been studied. A total of 155 volatile compounds were identified by using HS-SPME and SPE extraction methods, combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The total concentration of volatile compounds in puffed green tea increased by 2.25 times compared to that in before puffing. 12 key volatile compounds in green tea were identified before and after puffing using a combination of multivariate statistical analysis, GC-O, AEDA dilution analysis, and relative odor activity value (rOAV). The puffing process generates the Maillard reaction, where sugars react with amino acids to produce Maillard reaction products (such as pyrazine, pyrrole, furan, and their derivatives), giving them a unique baking aroma. The proportion of these compounds in the total volatile matter increased. The research results provided guidance and a theoretical basis for improving the aroma processing of green tea.