Study on Gel Properties of Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and White Croaker (Argyrosomus argentatus) Blended Surimi at Different Setting Conditions

Gel properties of blends of surimi from silver carp and white croaker set for a range of times and at different temperatures were evaluated for breaking force, breaking distance, and whiteness. Total protein content was 12% in all samples, and the concentration of white croaker surimi protein in the blends was designed at 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40%. The blended surimi had greater gel strength than either of the two types of surimi alone. Breaking force and breaking distance after setting were also significantly higher than that of the blended surimi cooked directly without setting. The blended surimi exhibited less modori than either of the two types of surimi alone heated to 50°C. The whiteness values of the blended surimi were significantly higher than that of white croaker alone. These results indicate there are advantages to be gained in utilizing surimi from freshwater silver carp in blends with surimi from marine captured white croaker which is becoming limited in supply.