Intelligent and Active Packaging System Application in Evaluating and Maintaining the Tuna (Thunnus Sp.) Fillets’ Quality at Cold Temperature

Abstract

This study developed intelligent and active packaging combined for tuna fillets. The purposes of this study were to determine the colour change of packaging indicator labels and the effectiveness of edible coatings (citronella oil concentrations of 0%, 0.5%, and 1%), as well as to establish a correlation between the colour analysis values of intelligent indicator and observed spoilage criteria of tuna stored at refrigerated temperatures (4±1°C). The parameters tested included the determination of Total Volatile Bases Nitrogen, Total Plate Count, pH, and sensory analysis. The test was carried out every three days for 18 days, with two replications. The findings indicated that the intelligent indicator label (Bromothymol blue + Methyl Red (1:1)) changed colour from deep red to yellow and then green. Edible coating with 0.5% citronella oil gave the best result in this study. The correlation between the colour analysis of the intelligent indicators and the parameters of the fish spoilage test is positive, suggesting a consistent trend pattern in determining the degree of decay in tuna fillets. Correlation coefficient values vary from 0.98 to 0.99, showing a significant correlation. The combination of intelligent and active packaging in a single packaging system allows for monitoring tuna's quality while increasing its shelf life.