Aplicación de ácido ascórbico activado con plasma frío para la conservación del camarón blanco del Pacífico Penaeus vannamei

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PUBLICATION OF PROJECT. Melanosis in shrimp is effectively controlled with sulfites, but this can lead to high residue levels in the product. This raises concerns regarding consumer safety and regulatory compliance. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of plasma-activated ascorbic acid for melanosis control as a potential replacement for sulfites. Plasma-activated solutions (PAS) with air and oxygen were characterized to determine their conductivity, pH, peroxides, nitrites, and nitrates. Melanosis was assessed using image analysis, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, and color analysis. Volatile basic nitrogen, pH, water-holding capacity, texture, and peroxides were also evaluated. Plasma activation of ascorbic acid with oxygen (O2-PAA) resulted in a low degree of melanosis, with similar results to those obtained with sulfites. Plasma reactive species decreased pH and enhanced the antioxidant activity of ascorbic acid, improving its ability to inhibit PPO and preserve whiteness. PAS did not affect the shrimp's muscle structure and preserved its textural and physicochemical attributes. These findings demonstrate that O2-PAA could be considered an alternative to sulfite treatments for shrimp. Keywords: sensory acceptance, melanosis, polyphenoloxidase, sulfites.