Research

Intermediate Moisture Products from Pale Meated Salmon.

Problem: Pale meated salmon sometimes comprises 15% to 20% of a processors production. Finding uses for this pale meated chum and pink salmon is critical for effectively unitizing this resource. One opportunity may be in the development of intermediate moisture products for pet foods. The market for pet treats and “ring” bait used in dog shows is growing and traditional sources for these products such as pigs ears and sinew are unable to keep up with demand. Using a combination of injection, vacuum infusion, heat processing and emulsion technology, pet treats will be developed from pale meat salmon. Developed products will be field tested at pet shows.

Solution & Approach: This project is ongoing. A whole muscle product and a comminuted muscle product will be developed, chemically characterized and its shelf-life determined over a one-year period. The two best prototype pet treats will be tested in consumer trials. Samples will be distributed at pet shows in Anchorage and Fairbanks with a questionnaire to be filled out and returned. The questionnaire will ask per owners to rate the product appearance, product odor, ease of use, response of their pets and willingness to purchase a similar product.

Contact person: Dr. Charles Crapo email: stsmiley@alaska.edu