An autochthonous Serbian product – Kajmak Characteristics and production procedures

Abstract

Kajmak is a dairy product with unique composition and sensory characteristics. It is formed from the thin, skin-like layer or crust formed on the surface of hot milk over a long cooling process, through milk fat aggregation with the significant participation of milk proteins. It can be consumed as a fresh kajmak immediately after production, or as a mature kajmak, after a substan- tial ripening period. Being an autochthonous Serbian dairy product, kajmak is believed to be one of the most prestigious and respectable dairy products that symbolizes domestic agriculture in this area of the world. The procedure of kajmak production is usually based on the traditional method of manufacture, which results in products of uneven composition and quality. Numerous steps in the procedure could represent potential safety risks for kajmak and the remaining milk. The sensory and compositional parameters of kajmak place this product between cheeses and butter in the classi- fication of dairy products. The microflora of kajmak, which mainly originates from raw milk, plays a major role in the maturation process, particularly regarding texture and sensory profiles. The pro- cedure for kajmak production developed in the food company Polimark is a promising solution for industrial kajmak production. The procedure covers all the steps that are included in traditional kajmak production, but the methodologies carried out are acceptable for industrial implementation. The use of lactic starters introduced in this industrial procedure may become a strategic tool for managing the ripening process and sensory characteristics of mature kajmak. Uncontrolled and un- predictable safety and sensory qualities regarding kajmak is certainly the main reason why such a delicious product has been left out of the world market and remains only significant on a local level. In this respect, the establishment of a modern, industrial kajmak production should represent a substantial improvement of the manufacturing conditions able to reduce the safety risks and to provide the conditions for commercializing a standard high-quality product. kajmak / composition / traditional production / industrial production / starter cultures