Adding Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix) Leaf Essential Oil to Gelatin Coating for Extending the Shelf Life of Red Snapper Fillet

Red Snappers contain high content protein and water which makes them highly perishable. However, they are widely processed into the fillet. One of the disadvantages of filleting is the short shelf life due to the high water content turning the fillets into an ideal media for bacteria. The edible coating protects the meat from perishability by reducing the water vapor, aroma, and lipid migration. One of the potential protein sources for coating is gelatin. The essential oil content that has a role in inhibiting bacterial growth is citronellal. The present study aimed to determine the effects of adding Kaffir limes (Citrus hystrix) leaf essential oil to a gelatin coating on the shelf life of red snappers’ fillet. An experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with four treatment groups based on the concentration of Citrus hystrix essential oil and five replications (n = 3 per group). In this regard, the treatments were named P0 (0% of Citrus hystrix), P1 (1% of Citrus hystrix), P2 (1.5% of Citrus hystrix), and P3 (2% of Citrus hystrix). The investigated parameters included total plate count, sensory quality, and acidity. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA followed by Duncan’s multiple range test. The results showed that the addition of 1.5% and 2% Citrus hystrix essential oil decreased the number of bacteria, and led to a higher sensory quality. In conclusion, The addition of Citrus hystrix essential oil in the gelatin-coating process can be used as a method of processing the fishery products to extend the shelf life of red snappers’ fillet at room temperature and inhibit bacterial growth.