Author
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Kim, Jin |
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Green, Bartholomew - Bart |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 9/20/2004 Publication Date: 10/7/2004 Citation: Kim, J.M., Green, B.W. 2004. On-going projects of value-added product development. Field Day Book of Abstracts, October 7. Aquaculture/Fisheries Center of Excellence, Univeersity of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Pine Bluff, AR. p.11. Interpretive Summary: Interpretive summary not required. Technical Abstract: Channel catfish consumption has increased dramatically over the past decade. Processed weight increased from 381 million to 597 million pounds, and fresh and frozen sales increased from $417 million to $658 million during the 1991-2001 period. Per-capita consumption of catfish, which increased from 0.41 pounds in 1985 to 1.15 pounds in 2001, contributed substantially to the market expansion. Producers, processors, and marketers of catfish face new opportunities and challenges in an environment of low producer and processor prices, and increased competition from imported fish fillets, particularly those selling as 'catfish.' Channel catfish belly flap meat and mis-cut fillets are considered low-value products compared to first-quality fillets. Additionally, the nearly 15% fat content of belly flap meat limits shelf life and contributes to undesirable sensory qualities of the cooked product. Developing value-added products from these inputs will increase product utilization and profitability of processing. Post-harvest handling and processing methods to reduce the fat content in the belly flap meat of channel catfish will enhance the quality, functionality, and sensory characteristics of its value-added products. By transforming catfish meat using belly flap and mis-cut fillets as well as the meat recovered from fillet frames, or even regular fillets, into a variety of ready-to-heat and eat products, problems associated when marketing catfish products as commodities, such as taste, texture, smell, price, and knowledge of preparation, may be surmounted, which can lead to future increased market penetration and development. The objective of our research program on value-added channel catfish product development is to increase the quality of aquaculture products by meeting changing consumer preferences and enhancing recovery and further processing of edible tissue. The majority of products that will be developed likely are 4-6 oz portions with or without additional coating as well as snack-type products. Shelf-life studies and sensory panel evaluation will be conducted for some types of developed products. Experimental auctions will be conducted for promising products to determine consumer acceptance and willingness to pay. |
