Volatile Compounds, Polyphenols and Sensory Quality in the Production of Tomato Vinegar

Fresh tomato and tomato products are widely consumed products. Their beneficial properties are not only present in fresh products but also in fermented ones. Therefore, the production of fresh tomato derivatives could be a good alternative to get a higher diversification and to make a good use of possible overproductions. Tomato vinegar from tomato paste by submerged culture fermentation has been developed. Final assays of maceration with rehydrated tomato paste (3, 5 and 7% v/v) in order to improve the final composition and organoleptic characteristics were also carried out. Polyphenols and volatile compounds have been determined along production and maceration processes. The statistical study (analysis of variance and principal component analysis) showed significant differences in volatile compounds and polyphenols according to matrix (rehydrated tomato paste, tomato wine and tomato vinegar) and specific maceration conditions (amount of rehydrated tomato paste and maceration time), which were also supported by sensory analysis. On the basis of the analytical and sensory results, 3 days of maceration and 5% v/v of rehydrated tomato paste were fixed as optimum conditions to obtain a tomato vinegar from tomato paste.