Dr., Hefei University of Technology, China
Yu Zhou is a passionate researcher in Food Science and Engineering, currently pursuing his doctoral degree at Hefei University of Technology, China. With a deep interest in improving food quality and processing methods, his work has focused on enhancing meat product preservation, sodium reduction techniques, and energy-efficient freezing technologies. Yuโs academic journey reflects his commitment to solving real-world challenges in food sustainability and nutrition. His research is recognized through multiple publications in prestigious international journals, where he collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to develop cutting-edge approaches to meat science. Driven by curiosity and a vision for healthier, energy-conscious food systems, Yu continues to explore innovative solutions at the intersection of food chemistry, meat processing, and environmental responsibility. His work bridges academia and industry, contributing to both scientific knowledge and practical applications. At 29, Yu Zhou exemplifies the next generation of food scientists committed to sustainability, public health, and technological advancement.
๐นprofile
scopus
๐นEducationย
Yu Zhou holds both his masterโs and ongoing doctoral degrees in Food Science and Engineering from Hefei University of Technology, one of Chinaโs leading technological institutions. During his Masterโs studies (2017โ2020), he laid a strong foundation in meat processing, food preservation, and biochemical evaluation. His Master’s thesis focused on sodium-reduction strategies in meat products, employing ultrasound treatment as an innovative method for improving flavor and health profiles. Currently, as a PhD researcher (2021โpresent), he explores energy-efficient freezing technologies, protein modification, and peptide bioactivity in processed meats. His doctoral research integrates interdisciplinary techniquesโfrom molecular biology to engineering principlesโreflecting an advanced understanding of the complex interactions within food systems. With rigorous academic training and exposure to advanced analytical tools and techniques, Yu has cultivated a holistic understanding of food technology that balances product quality, nutritional value, and energy sustainability.
๐น Experience
Yu Zhouโs research experience spans across several projects focusing on sodium-reduced meat processing, immersion freezing, peptide activity, and protein chemistry. As a graduate researcher at Hefei University of Technology, he has contributed significantly to experimental designs, sample preparation, statistical analysis, and co-authoring peer-reviewed articles. He has demonstrated proficiency in advanced tools such as texture analyzers, gas chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. Yuโs role often involves optimizing parameters for ultrasound-assisted curing and freezing protocols to achieve better tenderness, oxidation stability, and water-holding capacity in meat. He has worked in multi-disciplinary teams, collaborating with chemists, food engineers, and nutritionists. Yu is also experienced in writing scientific manuscripts, presenting findings at academic seminars, and assisting in guiding junior students in laboratory methods. His research is both academically rigorous and industrially relevant, reflecting practical implications for food production companies and public health stakeholders.
๐น Research Focus
Yu Zhouโs primary research focus lies in the intersection of meat product processing, sodium reduction strategies, and energy-efficient preservation technologies. His work investigates the biochemical and structural behavior of meat under different curing and freezing conditions, particularly using ultrasound-assisted techniques and NaCl-based immersion freezing. He aims to reduce energy consumption during storage while maintaining or improving meat quality, flavor, and nutritional value. Another major thread in his research is the bioactivity of peptides derived from modified meat proteins, especially their potential in cardiovascular health (e.g., ACE-inhibitory activity). By optimizing salt types, protein interactions, and freezing conditions, Yuโs work contributes both to sustainability goals and consumer health. His interdisciplinary approach blends food chemistry, engineering, and public health considerations, paving the way for next-generation functional foods that are both eco-friendly and health-promoting.
๐นPublication Top Notes
1. Zhou, Y. et al. (2025)
Title: Enhancing storage quality and oxidation stability of contact immersion frozen pork using NaCl refrigerant with l-proline and/or l-lysine.
Journal: LWT, 223, 117718.
Summary: This study explores the role of amino acids (l-proline, l-lysine) added to NaCl refrigerant in enhancing oxidation stability and storage quality of pork. It introduces an innovative contact immersion freezing method, significantly reducing lipid oxidation and preserving color and texture.
2. Zhou, Y. et al. (2020)
Title: Effect of salt mixture on flavor of reduced-sodium restructured bacon with ultrasound treatment.
Journal: Food Science & Nutrition, 8(7), 3857โ3871.
Summary: This research evaluates flavor improvement in reduced-sodium bacon using a salt mixture and ultrasound curing. Findings show enhanced flavor profiles and consumer acceptance, with improved protein solubility and lower sodium content.
3. Zhou, Y. et al. (2024)
Title: Contribution to energy conservation and quality improvement of frozen pork via contact/contactless immersion freezing in NaCl solution.
Journal: Meat Science, 216, 109593.
Summary: Compares energy efficiency and meat quality using contact vs. contactless immersion freezing. The contact method using NaCl was superior in energy saving and preserving sensory and structural attributes of pork.
4. Zou, L., Zhou, Y. et al. (2023)
Title: ACE Inhibitory Activity of Peptides from Pork Sausage with NaCl-KCl Substitution.
Journal: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 71(28), 10638โ10646.
Summary: Focuses on two bioactive peptides from sausage formulated with partial KCl substitution. Demonstrates strong ACE-inhibitory activity, suggesting cardiovascular benefits of modified meat products.
5. Pan, Q., Zhou, Y. et al. (2024)
Title: Effects of ultrasound-assisted dry-curing on pork water holding capacity and tenderness.
Journal: Food Chemistry, 453, 139704.
Summary: Investigates how ultrasound modifies salt-soluble proteins, improving porkโs tenderness and water retention. The findings can optimize curing protocols in reduced-sodium meat processing.
Conclusion
Yu Zhou is a promising and productive early-career researcher with a focused and meaningful research profile in food science, particularly meat processing technologies. His work is highly relevant in addressing key global issues such as health-conscious food design, sustainability, and food safety. With continued growth in leadership, international engagement, and translational outcomes (e.g., patents or applied technologies), he has the potential to become a leading figure in his field.