Correlation of the Rheological Behavior of Egg Albumen to Temperature, pH, and NaCl Concentration

Rheological parameters of viscosity, gel strength, and elasticity were determined on heat-set egg albumen gels over various treatment combinations ranging from 65-90°C, pH 6.4-9.6, and NaCl concentrations of 0.0-0.1M added NaCl. Maximum viscosity was measured at a treatment combination of 77.5°C, pH 8.00, and 0.1M NaCl. Elasticity and gel strength were highest in gels with a treatment combination of 85.2°C, pH 9.0, and 0.08M NaCl. Temperature had the greatest effect on all three rheological parameters. Gels heated above 80°C were of unusual character, exhibiting syneresis and shrinkage.