The sensory characteristics of berry-flavoured kefir

Certain physicochemical and sensory characteristics of the flavoured kefir drink were studied during refrigerated storage. Kefir drink batches were prepared using 2% addition of kefir grains, incubation for 18 h and subsequent filtration. The batches were then flavoured with blackberry, raspberry and strawberry aromas in the concentrations of 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15%, respectively. The samples were taken for analysis on 1(st), 4(th) 7(th), and 10(th) days of storage at 4 +/- 1 degrees C. The sensory analysis of the flavoured kefir samples revealed the best acceptability level on the 4(th) day of storage. Nevertheless, the samples were acceptable all throughout the storage. The percentage of the aroma addition significantly influenced the odour, flavour, texture, and mouth-feel, and the overall acceptability ratings. The higher percentage of the added aroma the more sensed, however, the lowest aroma addition was preferable. The pHs of the flavoured kefir drinks decreased throughout the storage time whereas, the titratable acidity, alcohol content and CO2 values increased