Effect of processing on aggregation mechanism of egg white proteins.

Egg white proteins (EWPs) are important components of many food products. To obtain optimal functionality, EWP aggregation needs to be controlled. Different treatments can lead to the formation of aggregates in diverse ways, depending on the parameters of the treatments. Recent articles on the effects of processing (heat treatment, alkali treatment, pulsed electric field, high pressure, ultraviolet irradiation, and high intensity ultrasound) on the aggregation of EWPs are reviewed. The relationships between the processing parameters and the aggregation mechanisms are discussed. The information may be helpful in controlling the aggregation mechanisms during the processing.