Study on Quality Changes of Kelp Gel Edible Granules during Storage

The kelp gel edible granules developed utilizing the gel properties of alginate are prone to quality deterioration if improperly stored during the storage process. This study comprehensively investigated the quality changes of kelp gel edible granules stored at 4 °C and 25 °C by evaluating indicators such as total bacterial count, coliform bacteria, pH, relaxation time, color difference, appearance, texture characteristics, gel strength, and sensory scoring. The results showed that during the storage at 4 °C, the total bacterial count remained within the national standard range, the hardness and chewiness increased, the gel strength first increased and then decreased, the partial exudation of the bound water in the product occurred, and the sensory score slightly decreased, with an overall minor change in quality. During the storage at 25 °C, significant quality changes were observed, with the total bacterial count exceeding the national standard on the 20th day; additionally, the hardness, chewiness, and gel strength all initially increased and then decreased, both the bound water and the restrained water in the product exuded, the moisture stability decreased, and the sensory score significantly decreased between 16 to 20 days. The spoilage of the product was characterized by a significant water loss, reduction in volume, color change from bright green to dark yellow-brown, and a distinct smell of decaying algae. No coliform bacteria was detected in all products during the storage period. In summary, the shelf life endpoint of the product stored at 25 °C is 16 days, and the shelf life of the product stored at 4 °C is greater than 20 days. Storage at 4 °C can better maintain product quality, extend the shelf life, and effectively maintain the overall color of the product.