Effect Of Brine Preservation On The Quality Of Oreochromis Niloticus

ABSTRACT

Fish is one of the most important animal protein foods available in the tropics (Fyo 2001). Fish being the cheapest source of animal protein play a significant role in the human diet of' developing countries (Bhandary. 1991). In Nigeria fish constitute 40% of' animal protein intake of people in tropical countries (Ikeme, I 991). Further more a vch1 processed fish from the tropics have a ready market in developed countries and are thus good foreign exchange earners Fish preservation is a crucial aspect of' fisheries commerce in Nigeria. especially because the high prevailing temperature causes rapid deterioration of' fish Given that about 40% of' fish is lost to post harvest spoilage. it is imperative that an adequate preservation method is found. . Preservation of fish by salting is of' considerable interest to developing countries. It is an inexpensive OCCSS requiring very simple equipment and no special skills. Salting might be a possible means of' reducing the high percentage of' post harvest losses recorded by fishermen and fish mongers in Nigeria.