Contents Index

Gaping of Fillets













Accompanying Notes
Table of Contents


R. M. LOYE

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD
TORRY RESEARCH STATION

TORRY ADVISORY NOTE No. 61

Crown copyright material is reproduced with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office.

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Accompanying Notes


Explains what gaping is, when and how it occurs, and what can be done to reduce its occurrence in both fresh, unfrozen fish and thawed, frozen white fish. Discusses the effects on gaping of species, size, the condition of the fish, poor handling, rigor, the time and temperature of stowage, and freezing. Advises on how to reduce gaping particularly in the context of handling on board freezer trawlers. In addition to the other Notes referenced in the text, it should be read in conjunction with Notes 34, 67 and 90.

(FAO in partnership with Support unit for International Fisheries and Aquatic Research, SIFAR, 2001).


Table of Contents


Introduction
What is meant by gaping?
What holds the fillet together?
When does gaping occur?
Causes of gaping
Do freezing and cold storage affect gaping?
How to reduce gaping


Contents Index