The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of storage at hypobaric (10kPa) atmosphere at room temperature (25°C) and at a low temperature of 10°C at atmospheric pressure on the headspace volatiles of miso prepared from common squid meat during 270days of storage. Based on the odor active values of the volatiles detected, 2-methylpropanal, 3-methylbutanal, 3-methyl-1-butanol, n-ethyl decanoate, 2,3-butanedione, dimethyl disulfide, methional, and 2-methyl butanoic acid were identified as key aroma compounds in squid miso. Low-temperature storage appeared to retard volatile compound formation and extent the shelf life. Hypobaric storage induced a significant reduction in lipid oxidation products, particularly aldehydes and ketones. The contents of sulfur-containing compounds and acids were significantly low; however, esters had relatively higher levels in hypobaric conditions. Production of furans and their derivatives were also found to be controlled by hypobaric storage. Therefore, hypobaric storage can be considered as an effective means of preserving squid miso and related fish paste products to prolong shelf-life in order to maintain aroma attributes.
