SEAWEED AS AN INGREDIENT FOR NUTRITIONAL IMPROVEMENT OF FISH JERKY

The effect of seaweed incorporation on the quality of fish jerky was studied. Sargassum wightii was incorporated in proportions of 0, 3, and 5% in Tuna jerky batter formulation. Physicochemical, microbiological, antioxidant, and sensory qualities were assessed. Total fiber content increases from 0.91 to 2.49% in seaweed incorporated sample. The additional seaweed produced samples with less tensile strength. The results showed that addition of seaweed increase the amounts of the macro minerals and trace elements in the jerky. Addition of seaweed improves antioxidant quality by decreasing IC50-DPPH of the product from 0.98 to 0.65mg/ml. Addition of seaweed up to 3% did not affect the organoleptic quality. Sargassum wightii can be a potent functional ingredient in convenient food like jerky.