Chemistry and microbiology of traditional Rihaakuru (fish paste) from the Maldives

Rihaakuru is a traditional Maldivian side dish consumed mainly with rice. It is a thick brown fish paste, made from tuna after prolonged heating. Samples tested were found to have a low water activity (0.55-0.8), slightly acidic pH (5.62-6.18) and moderate salt content (1.4-1.6%). The product was found to be rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3, had high protein content (56-59%) and an energy level of 13.8 kJ/g. The product had a low microbial count (1.54-2.31 log(10) cfu/g). The bacteria isolated belonged to the Bacillaceae (Genus Clostridium, and Bacillus), Streptococcaceae (Genus Streptococcus), Micrococcaceae (Genus Staphylococcus), and Corynebacterium. The product appears to be a nutritious and shelf-stable product.