A new transient-state model for quantitative prediction of taint in farmed barramundi fish (Lates calcarifer)

Abstract

Barramundi fish (Lates calcarifier) has a high demand as a premium seafood protein. However, inconsistent quality associated with taint as 'earthy' or 'muddy' flavour derived from aquatic micro-organisms, is a major buyer resistance. To aid farm management a quantitative model that predicts the transient-state concentration of taint, as either 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) or Geosmin (GSM), is presented. The aim was to produce a quantitative guide for farming practice. The new model is based on the use of hydrogen peroxide as an algaecide to dispense with the purge step. It is the sum of two exponential terms: one to for uptake of taint through gills, and; one to account for clearance via gills plus metabolic transformation and growth dilution effects. The model is more realistic and therefore advantageous over existing approaches.The model overall predicts a higher level of taint than reported data.