The quality characteristics of Omija (Schizandra chinesis Baillon) extracts under various extraction temperatures and times were examined. The pH level of the extracts ranged from 3.35-3.47. The sugar and solid content of the samples significantly increased with increasing extraction temperatures and times (p〈0.01). In contrast, the lightness of the extracts decreased with increasing extraction temperatures and times (p〈0.001). In a palatability test, extracts boiled at 80℃ for 30 minutes scored high in terms of color, flavor, turbidity, sourness, and overall acceptability. Hydroxy radical scavenging activity and polyphenol content of the extracts significantly increased with increasing extraction temperatures and times (p〈0.01). Furthermore, direct correlations between hydroxy radical scavenging activity and polyphenol content (or flavonoid content) were established through simple regression (r〉0.9) for different extraction temperatures and times. From these results, extracts boiled at 80℃ for 120 minutes is the best to product omija beverage considering functionality and sensory evaluation as well.

• 민성희 | Min, Sung Hee