Abstract: A process for freeze drying coffee extract in the form of pellets combines short freeing times with high drying pressures, saving time and energy in comparison with conventional processes. The thus obtained product has an excellent flavour and its surface reminds one of freshly roasted coffee beans.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing aroma-containing food products in which exogenously and/or endogenously formed enzyme complexes are separated from specific pure or mixed cultures of microorganisms, which develop certain characteristic flavoring and aromatizing agents. The enzyme complexes are subsequently added to an aqueous solution or suspension of a substrate. The isolated enzyme complexes are optionally concentrated or standardized beforehand under careful conditions. The mixture of the substrate and enzyme complexes subsequently undergoes biochemical rapid ripening under suitable conditions until the desired aromatizing and flavoring agent concentration is obtained. The biochemical rapid ripening is then terminated by substantial inactivation of the enzyme complexes. The ferment solution or suspension obtained and which contains the desired flavoring and aromatizing substances, can be added to basic food substances for aromatizing them.