Fish Preservation Techniques

What is the primary function of salt when preserving fish?

Why is it important to elevate the center of a Kench salt fish pile?

Which characteristic distinguishes 'kench' salting technique?

Which of the following is a disadvantage of kench salting when compared to other techniques?

What causes 'red' or 'pink' spoilage in salted fish during warm weather?

What is 'dun' in the context of salted fish spoilage?

What is the recommended method to prevent the growth of mold in salted fish?

Which of the following statements about kench salting is true?

Salting Fish

Salting is a method of preserving fish using dry salt. Salt removes water from food, making it difficult for microorganisms to survive.
In Kench salting, fish are piled with salt, allowing the brine to drain away. This method is common for large, lean fish. Fish are typically placed on racks or in shallow concrete tanks.
Preparation involves layering fish (flesh-side up) on a bed of salt, covering them with more salt (more salt on thicker parts). Layers are added, ensuring the center is slightly higher than the edges. Scores (grooves) in the fish are also filled with salt.
The pile should not exceed 2 meters in height, keeping a 10cm difference between the highest point and the edges.
This process is designed to prevent the accumulation of brine and uneven curing, which can lead to discoloration of the fish. To prevent contamination, the edges of the piles are regularly sprinkled with salt.

Spoilage in Salted Fish

"Red or Pink" spoilage: Occurs in warm weather during storage. Red slime develops on the surface due to salt-tolerant bacteria (e.g., Halobacterium salinaria, Sarcina morrhuae).
Salt storage can lead to other problems: air exposure, insects and rodents, mould, and bacterial attacks.

Prevention of Spoilage

To prevent mold growth, store fish at low temperatures. Molds grow at high humidity (75% or higher). Mold may appear as dark spots (black pepper).

Explore the methods of preserving fish through salting techniques. Learn about the kench salting method and important preparation steps to ensure quality and longevity of salted fish. This quiz also covers spoilage issues related to salted fish preservation.