Effect of high hydrostatic pressure on mortality and allergenicity of Anisakis simplex L3 and on muscle properties of infested hake

BACKGROUND: High pressure (HP) ranging from 100 to 350 MPa (1–15 min) was applied to Anisakis simplex larvae and parasitised hake (Merluccius merluccius) muscle. The aim of the study was to kill the larvae to prevent human anisakidosis, to evaluate the effect on A. simplex allergens and to minimally alter fish muscle quality. RESULTS: The larvae were killed at pressures ≥ 200 MPa and times ≥ 1 min, producing alterations in the larva body and ruptures in the cuticle when observed by scanning electron microscopy. Nevertheless, Ani s 4 and A. simplex crude antigens were recognised by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry at all HPs assayed. Small changes in colour and texture were observed in fish muscle under all pressure/time conditions. Major changes were observed visually at 300 MPa, where the muscle appeared as slightly cooked. Apparent viscosity of muscle homogenates decreased significantly at longer times or higher applied pressure. No changes were detected at 200 MPa in the electrophoretic pattern of proteins treated with or without β‐mercaptoethanol, suggesting that disulfide bonds were not formed. CONCLUSION: Application of HP at 200 MPa for up to 5 min would kill A. simplex larvae, avoiding infestation of the consumer and causing small changes in the hake muscle perceived sensorially. However, HP‐treated A. simplex‐parasitised fish would still be a potential hazard for consumers allergic to the larvae. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry