Quality assessment of grass carp packaged with a hydrogel-based active film during chilled storage
摘要
In this study, the hydrogel-based active packaging film with controlled-release carvacrol (CA) was developed to improve the storage quality and shelf life of grass carp. Preliminary experiments were conducted to screen film performance and identify the optimal formulation. Among them, the film containing 6 g hydrogel (PAS-CY film) had the best overall performance. The PAS-CY film sustained CA release for up to 12 days, with release rates positively influenced by relative humidity and pH. Antibacterial tests showed stronger inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (17.01 ± 0.13 mm) than Escherichia coli (12.08 ± 0.43 mm). During storage, the PAS-CY film limited total viable counts to 6.88 ± 0.12 log CFU/g and reduced malondialdehyde accumulation to 0.742 ± 0.03 mg/kg, compared with higher values in uncoated grass carp and samples wrapped with non-active film. It also effectively maintained water-holding capacity and textural properties. Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong correlations among most quality indicators (r > 0.96). Microbial analysis identified Aeromonas, Shewanella, and Pseudomonas as dominant spoilage genera. This film provides an effective strategy to extend shelf life and preserve the quality of grass carp during chilled storage.
Graphical Abstract