Effects of basic amino acids on heterocyclic amines and quality characteristics of fried beef patties at low NaCl level

The impact of basic amino acids (Lysine, Arginine, Histidine) on the formation of total heterocyclic amines (HAs) was investigated in fried beef patties at 1% NaCl level. Different levels of basic amino acids (0.1%, 0.5%, 1%) significantly inhibited the formation of the total and individual HAs at 1% NaCl, and the inhibitory effect was more effective than 3% NaCl (6.19 ng/g, 26.93% inhibition) (P < 0.05). Lys at 1% reduced total HAs the most (2.46 ng/g, 70.88% inhibition), followed by 1% His (2.79 ng/g, 67.03% inhibition) and 1% Arg (3.43 ng/g, 59.51% inhibition). Compared to the 3% NaCl, the quality characteristics (moisture content, frying loss, texture profile, and color) of the fried beef patties were significantly improved when basic amino acids were added at 1% NaCl (P < 0.05). The lipid oxidation of fried beef patties was significantly inhibited by 1% Arg and 1% Lys at 1% NaCl level (P < 0.05). The results indicated that basic amino acids could inhibit the formation of total HAs while maintaining the quality of meat products at low NaCl condition.