Plaice Skin Collagen Extraction and Functional Properties

Solutions and mechanical treatments for decolorizing and washing of collagen from plaice ( Pleuronectes plutessa ) skin were studied. The best means was high‐speed homogenization with 0.4M NaCl. Four ways of stabilizing this collagen were tried, involving freezing and freeze‐drying, and partial solubilization with 0.05M acetic acid prior to freezing or freeze drying or without partial solubilization. Only freeze‐drying caused reduction in solubility and emulsifying capacity. Viscosity was greatest when samples were pre‐solubilized. Emulsifying capacity was not changed when samples were frozen and decreased when they were either freeze‐dried or presolubilized. Optimum water‐holding capacity occurred in samples which had been previously solubilized.