Changes in biogenic amines during the manufacture and storage of semipreserved anchovies

Abstract

Biogenic amines were determined by using high-pressure liquid chromatography during spoilage of raw Engraulis encrasicholus (anchovies), during ripening and shelf life. Histamine, cadaverine, tyramine, and putrescine were extensively formed at the beginning of spoilage, while β- phenylethylamine and tryptamine were formed only at advanced stages of spoiling. Serotonin, spermine, and spermidine levels were constant throughout spoilage. Seventeen lots of anchovies were evaluated through the typical ripening process. Each ripening process lasted 18 to 22 weeks. Only a slight formation of biogenic amines was observed during the first period of ripening (2 to 4 weeks). According to our results, ripening had little influence on the formation of amines, and therefore the amount of amines in the final products depends primarily on the levels of these substances in the raw material. During shelf-life studies, anchovies packed in brine were more stable, from the point of view of biogenic amine formation, than anchovies packed in oil. High formation of tryptamine and histamine was observed in both products when they were stored at room temperature. Refrigerated storage prevents amine formation.