Effects of partial replacement of NaCl by KCl and CaCl₂ on physicochemical properties, microstructure, and textural...

KCl and CaCl₂ were used as partial substitutes for NaCl during pickling salted eggs process in this study. The effects on the physicochemical properties, microstructure, textural properties and sensory quality of the salted eggs were evaluated, while comparing with the 18% NaCl group (Na group). The 3% replacement of NaCl by KCl reduced the Na content (p < 0.05), accelerated the water migration (p < 0.05) in salted eggs and increased the apparent oil yield and oil exudation of salted egg yolk (p < 0.05); but the rheological properties and microstructure of salted egg yolk were minimally affected. The 3% replacement of NaCl by CaCl₂ reduced the Na content (p < 0.05), delayed the water migration rate (p < 0.05) in salted eggs and decreased the apparent oil yield and oil exudation of salted egg yolk (p < 0.05). Additionally, the process of egg white thinning and egg yolk hardening were delayed. The results indicate that the partial substitution of NaCl by KCl or CaCl₂ during the pickling process of salted eggs could effectively inhibit the infiltration of Na⁺ , and the presence of KCl could improve the quality of salted eggs. Still, the presence of CaCl₂ delay the ripening of salted eggs. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: KCl and CaCl₂ as substitutes of sodium salt could play the role of reducing Na content but not affecting saline taste of salted eggs, which is conducive to the development of low-sodium salted eggs.