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NEWTON Home Page NEWTON Teachers Visit Our Archives Ask A Question How To Ask A Question Question of the Week Our Expert Scientists Volunteer at NEWTON! Frequently Asked Questions Referencing NEWTON About NEWTON About Ask A Scientist Education At Argonne Broccoli in Water Smell 
Name: Jim F.
Status: educator
Age: 40s
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: 12/10/2002
Question:
Broccoli and to some extent cauliflower when stored in water uncooked (but not only then) tends to give of a methane type of smell.

What is the gas given of by raw broccoli prior to consumption? I teach Hospitality and Tourism in Ontario and have often wondered what is going on to create that definite odor.

Replies:
The following about phytocompounds and food chemistry should be helpful:

http://www.chemheritage.org/EducationalServices/pharm/chemo/readings/phyto.htm

http://www.samcooks.com/EatFresh/Vegetables/cauliflower.htm

http://www.nutramed.com/foodquality/foodchemistry.htm

Generally, sulfur compounds are the culprit.

Sincerely,

Anthony R. Brach


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