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Relationship between sulfur compounds and Baijiu flavor: composition, flavor characteristics, and modulation
Ting Li1, Ying Lang2, Yangyang Huo1
1Key Laboratory of Brewing Molecular Engineering of China Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
Abstract:
Baijiu is a traditional Chinese distilled spirit and one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in China. Its complex aroma plays a central to product quality and consumer acceptance. Sulfur compounds, though present at trace levels, are crucial to Baijiu's aroma due to their low odor thresholds and strong sensory impact. This review summarizes current advances in their detection, composition, sensory roles, interactions, and regulation across production stages. A total of 228 volatile, 44 aroma-active, and 5 key aroma-active sulfur compounds have been reported in Baijiu. Jiang-flavor Baijiu exhibits the greatest diversity, with up to 125 sulfur compounds. Notably, dimethyl trisulfide reaches 33,360 μg/L in Nong-flavor Baijiu, the highest level reported among all sulfur compounds. Sulfur compounds contribute to cellar, pickle, and sesame aromas, while their interactions with esters and acids enhance flavor complexity. Strategies for regulating these compounds during fermentation, distillation, and aging are also discussed.
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