Chemical and physical characteristics of a soybean beverage with improved flavor by addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid

A new method to obtain a soybean (SB) with improved flavor characteristics was developed by adding ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The SB was evaluated for pH, viscosity and density, as well as for protein, oil and ash contents, fatty acid composition and lipoxygenase activity. A water/bean ratio of 4.5:1 was selected because it provided the best protein (4.22 g 100 ml-1) and total solids (8.80 g 100 ml-1) contents. Sensory ratings for flavor and aroma intensities were also determined and compared with those of a commercial soymilk and a soybean beverage without EDTA. Samples from SB had the lowest ratings for green/beany and rancid flavors. The results indicated that the addition of EDTA may reduce off-flavors in soybean products.