Evaluation of functional properties of egg white obtained from pasteurized shell egg as ingredient in angel food cake

Pasteurized shell eggs are eggs that have been thermally treated to eliminate harmful bacteria, however the treatment may also denature some of the egg white proteins. In this study the degree of denaturation and functional properties (emulsifying, foaming, and gelling properties) of egg white obtained from pasteurized eggs (EWP) were compared with those of unpasteurized eggs (EWUP). Data from differential scanning calorimeter showed that the EWP (ovotransferin, lysozyme, and ovalbumin) denatured at lower temperatures and required lower denaturation enthalpies than EWUP, indicating a partial loss of protein structure during the pasteurization process in the pasteurized eggs. The emulsion and foam stability formed from EWP were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than those of EWUP, however the EWP formed stronger gels than EWUP. To assess suitability of EWP as a cake ingredient, angel food cake was prepared using both egg whites. As compared to EWUP-cake, EWP-cake was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in volume, cohesiveness and springiness values, but significantly (P < 0.05) higher in hardness, gumminess and chewiness. Overall, the sensory panelists gave significantly (P < 0.05) higher scores for angel food cake prepared with EWUP. The differences in functional properties of egg white proteins and the quality of cake were due mainly to the higher levels of denaturation attained by EWP as a result of the pasteurization process.