Integrated volatolomics and lipidomics analysis reveal the characteristic flavor formation mechanism in steamed large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea)

The internal relationship between lipid composition and characteristic flavor in the steamed large yellow croaker (LYC) was investigated using volatolomics, lipidomics, and electronic sensory systems. Compared to fresh LYC, the concentrations of five key volatile flavor compounds detected after steaming exceeded human sensory thresholds. Notably, nonanal, hexanal, and 1-octen-3-ol significantly influenced the flavor of the cooked meat. Steaming at 70 °C enhanced the LYC flavor profile, with the strongest flavor observed at 80 °C. The content of three key volatile flavor compounds peaked, especially hexanal, which reached 54.55 μg/kg. Phosphatidylcholines, triacylglycerols, and fatty acids were closely associated with the volatile flavor profile of steamed LYC. The oxidation of FA 22:6 was identified as a crucial source of flavor in LYC. This study aimed to improve consumer experience by exploring the nutritional quality and flavor formation mechanisms in the thermal processing of LYC.