Herbal additives such as cumin oil found to increase shelf life offresh fish fillets

Fish is a popular edible. In fact the Food and Agricultural Organization estimates that fish eaters consume up to 163 million tons of the aquatic protein every year. That's a lot of fish to freeze. And, unfortunately, more so than is the case with other popular proteins, fish spoils easily, even when kept on ice. Adding a natural antimicrobial agent, such as the common kitchen spice, black cumin, could be an inexpensive and economy-boosting way to extend the shelf life of vulnerable fish. This premise has actually been tested and proven by researchers at the Firat University in Turkey, where a study that utilized black cumin oil to extend the life of fish fillets proved entirely successful. The study showed that no negative side effects endured from the process. In addition to improving the safety of fish, the researchers noted that the process was environmentally sound as well, as it required less energy.

Key Takeaways:

• Researchers from the Turkish University, Firat University, have uncovered a use for the common kitchen spice, black cumin, that does not involve direct human consumption.
• The Food and Agricultural Organization has noted that up to 163 tons of fish are consumed per year, even though the protein is very prone to spoilage, even when refrigerated.
• The use of a natural antimicrobial agent, such as black cumin, promotes food safety, lowers energy cost and ups the value of the fish.

"The use of natural antimicrobials such as organic acids, essential oils, plant extracts, and bacteriocins could be good alternatives to ensure food safety."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-11-06-cumin-oil-increases-shelf-life-of-fresh-fish-fillets.html