Why Seafood Additives Are Essential
The food we have available to eat wherever we are in the world is the result of a very sophisticated system comprising cultivation, processing, and distribution, each with its own set of actions and processes. This entire system from source to table is made possible by advances in food preservation. Now, just as types of food greatly vary, so do the preservation solutions. Fish and seafood, as an example, is very susceptible to spoilage in a variety of ways, and thus requires a range of additives to preserve its quality throughout the processing and distribution processes.
Without the help of additives, seafood would have to be consumed as soon as it is brought to shore, and would only be available to the communities on the coastline directly surrounding sources. This would mean that there would be no tuna, calamari, or any of your other favourites available if you live in the interior of the country.
A Selection of Ways Seafood Additives Enables Distribution and Widespread Consumption
In general, it is as important to ensure that food is safe to eat, as it is to make sure that it also looks appealing. Because there are a variety of preservation requirements, it is often necessary to use a range of seafood additives. Various products will be necessary to perform the following functions:
It Helps Fight Oxidation
Fat that undergoes oxidation, is the reason why food goes rancid. It is thus very important to fight the effects of oxidation in order to preserve the food and maintain its edibility.
Eliminating and Inhibiting Microbes
A variety of microbes can affect the quality of the food, including bacteria and fungi. These are either present on the food in its natural habitat or it is introduced to the food during processing and distribution. Antimicrobial additives are used to eliminate or inhibit different microbes found on seafood to preserve the edibility of the product.
Preserving the Colour
Oxidation, enzymatic processes, handling, and certain preservation techniques such as freezing can cause the discolouration of seafood. Additives exist to delay or protect against these processes in order to preserve the colour of the food.
Preventing Odours
The smell of food plays a huge role in its desirability. Certain preservation solutions are specifically focussed on eliminating the causes of bad odours, including bacteria and certain enzymatic processes.
Capturing the Taste
This is a basic requirement of food: that it tastes good. Certain additives ensure that the seafood retains its fresh taste, even when subjected to handling and preservation techniques such as freezing.
Protecting the Texture
Seafood can easily lose its texture and become unpleasant during processing, storage, and distribution, which affect the appeal and value. Additives exist that delays the processes responsible for texture changes.
Tequisa is a leading supplier of quality seafood additives to the industry. For more information on our range of products available, including their technical function and application processes, get in touch with us. Our team is ready to assist with expert knowledge and advice.
