Species-Specific Low-Cost Surimi Processing Technology Using Optimized Washing Conditions, Salt Treatment and Mechanical Screw Press Dewatering System and Value-Added Surimi Product Development (SAU Surimi Blocks, Surimi Cake, Surimi Ball, Surimi Burger, and Surimi Nugget) from Pennah Croaker (Pennahia ovata) and Ribbon fish / Hairtail Fish (Trichiurus lepturus)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a species-specific, low-cost surimi processing technology and value-added seafood product development using underutilized marine fish species, namely Pennah Croaker (Pennahia ovata) and Ribbon fish / Hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus). The invention provides an integrated processing system comprising optimized washing conditions, controlled salt treatment, mechanical screw press dewatering, cryoprotectant incorporation, surimi block production, and development of value-added surimi products. The process includes chilled raw material handling, dressing, deboning, species-specific washing at 0– 5°C using a water-to-mince ratio of 1:2 with three washing cycles, optimized for each fish species to improve protein functionality, whiteness, odor removal, lipid reduction, and gel quality. Salt treatment is applied during the second washing cycle at optimized concentrations of 0.2% (w / w) for Hairtail and 0.5% (w / w) for Pennah Croaker to enhance protein solubilization, gel formation, texture, elasticity, and water-holding capacity. A specially designed mechanical screw press dewatering system is employed to reduce mince moisture content to approximately 70% while minimizing protein denaturation and maintaining gel-forming ability. Cryoprotectants comprising 2% sorbitol and 0.2% sodium tripolyphosphate are incorporated to improve frozen storage stability. The processed surimi is refined, packaged, frozen, and utilized for the manufacture of innovative value-added products including SAU Surimi Blocks, Surimi Cake, Surimi Ball, Surimi Burger, and Surimi Nugget. The invention offers a commercially viable, low-cost, and scalable technology suitable for small- and medium-scale coastal processing industries in Bangladesh, promoting utilization of underexploited fish resources, reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing product quality, and creating opportunities for domestic commercialization and export-oriented seafood processing.