Behaviour of partially cross-linked casein micelles under high pressure

High pressure (HP) treatment of a casein micelle suspension at 250 and 300 MPa leads to an initial rapid increase of its light transmission, as measured in situ, indicating micellar disruption. Subsequently, a much slower, partial reversal of the HP-induced increase in light transmission is observed, indicating re-association of micellar fragments. Partial internal cross-linking of the casein micelles by the enzyme transglutaminase prior to pressure treatment slows down both the disruption and the reassociation process considerably. It is proposed that covalent cross-linking provides the micelle with extra stability against pressure-induced disruption and also prevents a molecular reorganization process required to induce reassociation of micellar fragments during prolonged pressure treatment.