Fish Products

A coated product is one which is coated with another food stuff. Coating provides a crispy texture and appealing colour/flavor; enhances the nutritional quality; the coatings can be fortified with necessary nutrients; acts as a moisture barrier minimising moisture losses during frozen storage/microwave reheating and acts as food sealant by preventing natural juices from flowing out. Value addition increases the bulk of the substrate thus reducing the cost element of the finished product and also provides structural reinforcement to the substrate.

Apart from coated products, people like spicy adjuncts to make the food palatable and relishing. Pickles are good appetizers and digestive agents. There are several varieties of pickles which are consumed throughout the year. In this context, pickle, a spicy preparation, has gained importance in Indian menu. Preparation of pickles is an old art and a variety of these products are made in Indian homes. The basic principle of pickling is curing of fish and fruits by salting, acidifying, addition of vinegar and/or oil and spices.

Consumer demand is a dynamic process that changes based on several factors. Recent changes include a gradual disappearance of conventionally processed products and their emergence in new forms and styles; processed products in ready-to-consume forms in consumer packs and products which can be made for the table with minimum preparation (ready-to-cook).