Effect of yolk spheres as a key histological structure on the morphology, character, and oral sensation of boiled egg yolk gel.

This study explored the effect of yolk sphere on gel state and taste differences between whole boiled egg yolk (WBEY) and stirred boiled egg yolks (SBEYs). Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) indicated that the WBEY was formed via the accumulation of yolk spheres, whereas the SBEY was a gel with a tight and ordered microstructure. The stirring disrupted the yolk sphere structure, leading to a homogeneous distribution of proteins and lipids in SBEYs, and a cross-linked network in gel was established with higher hardness and springiness. In the oral sensation simulation, WBEY had a higher saliva adsorption capacity and frictional force to oral soft tissue during swallowing than SBEY. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of the gel structure and taste of egg yolk, and provides a theoretical basis for the research on the formation of the gritty taste of egg yolks.