Abstract

This study examined the development of a low-salt fermented seafood product using an ascidian (Halocynthia roretzi), and the optimum processing conditions and quality characteristics of the low-salt fermented ascidian (LSA). The optimum processing conditions for the LSA were as follows. The ascidian was shelled and its muscle sliced into 5 mm widths. This was soaked in a 10% salt and 1% sodium erythorbate solution for 20 min. The solution was drained and then the muscle was soaked in 0.1% sodium bisulfite solution for 1 min. To this was added a 1:1 mixture of anchovy sauce and rice gruel, and it was fermented at $5^{\circ}C$ for 15 days. The moisture content and salinity of the LSA were 75.0-75.4% and 8.0-8.5%, respectively. During salt-fermentation at $5^{\circ}C$ for 20 days, the amino-N content of the LSA increased, and the texture softened gradually. The viable cell counts in early salt-fermentation were $4.2-4.5{\times}10^4CFU/g$, and this decreased gradually. The ratio of saturated fatty acids tended to increase in early salt-fermentation, while that of polyunsaturated fatty acids decreased slightly. Chemical experiments and sensory evaluation showed that the dipping treatment in 1% sodium erythorbate solution and 0.1% sodium bisulfite solution resulted in a good color and prevented browning of the salt-fermented ascidian meat. Moreover, adding anchovy sauce and rice gruel mixture improved the flavor of the LSA.

Keywords

• Halocynthia roretzi;
• Ascidian;
• Salt-fermention;
• Low salt;
• Browning prevention