| BACKGROUND: This study investigated the effect of chitosan coating enriched with extracted egg
yolk antibodies on microbial and sensory quality of rainbow trout fillet during refrigeration (4±1 ˚C).
Firstly, bacterial antigen suspensions (total psycrophilic bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescene and
Shewanella putrefaciens) were injected into the breast muscles of chickens. Eggs of immunized
chickens were then collected to isolate IgY from egg yolks. Fresh fish fillets were coated by chitosan
solution containing different types of IgY separately, at two concentrations (60,90 mg/ml),
refrigerated for 16 days and analyzed for total viable count, Psychrotrophic, Pseudomonas spp., P.
fluorescene and S. putrefaciens count as well as sensorial properties.
RESULTS: The tested microbial values increased in all samples during the storage period; although,
CH+IgY treated samples could significantly retard microbial growth than control. The shelf life of
CH+IgY-P samples was extended for about 4 days, while it was extended for about 8 days in
CH+IgY-S and CH+IgY-T samples, when they were compared to control (P<0.05). Higher scores for
sensory attributes were also observed in CH+IgY treated samples, especially in CH+IgY-S samples
till the end of storage period.
CONCLUSION: Accordingly, use of chitosan coating containing IgY increases the microbial and
sensory quality of fish flesh at 4°C; Therefore, given the consumer interest in natural additives,
chitosan coating containing IgY can be a promising candidate. |