Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026

Preparation of High-Quality Fermented Fish Product
Published on: August 23, 2019
Study on the synergic effect of natural compounds on the microbial quality decay of packed fish hamburger
M R Corbo1, B Speranza, A Filippone
1Department of Food Science, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
Abstract:
The effectiveness of natural compounds in slowing down the microbial quality decay of refrigerated fish hamburger is addressed in this study. In particular, the control of the microbiological spoilage by combined use of three antimicrobials, and the determination of their optimal composition to extend the fish hamburger Microbiological Stability Limit (MAL) are the main objectives of this work. Thymol, grapefruit seed extract (GFSE) and lemon extract were tested for monitoring the cell growth of the main fish spoilage microorganisms (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Photobacterium phosphoreum and Shewanella putrefaciens), inoculated in fish hamburgers, and the growth of mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria. A Central Composite Design (CCD) was developed to highlight a possible synergic effect of the above natural compounds. Results showed an increase in the MAL value for hamburgers mixed with the antimicrobial compounds, compared to the control sample. The optimal antimicrobial compound composition, which corresponds to the maximal MAL value determined in this study, is: 110 mgL(-1) of thymol, 100 mgL(-1) of GFSE and 120 mgL(-1) of lemon extract. The presence of the natural compounds delay the sensorial quality decay without compromising the flavor of the fish hamburgers.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Spoilage of Food
Principles of Food Preservation
Microbes in the Production of Fermented Foods
Methods of Controlling Food Spoilage
Microorganisms in Agriculture and Food industry
Microbial Corrosion
