Effect of chitosan coatings incorporated sodium phytate on the shelf-life of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba)

Abstract Chitosan is a preservative with potent antibacterial activity, and sodium phytate has antioxidant activity and potent ion chelating ability. The present work aimed to explore the effects of chitosan coating combined with sodium phytate (0.1% sodium phytate + 1% chitosan) on preserving Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) during partially frozen storage. Treatment of chitosan coating combined with sodium phytate significantly suppressed microbial growth, the increases in pH value, total volatile basic nitrogen and sensory deterioration of Antarctic krill (E. superba) during partially frozen storage. Therefore, chitosan coating combined with sodium phytate may be a practical method to suppress quality deterioration of Antarctic krill and thus extend its shelf life.