PLAICE SKIN COLLAGEN EXTRACTION AND FUNCTIONAL-PROPERTIES

Solutions and mechanical treatments for decolorizing and washing of collagen from plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) skin were studied. The best means was high-speed homogenization with 0.4M NaCl. Four ways of stabilizing this collagen were tried, involving freezing and freeze-drying, and partial solubilization with 0.05M acetic acid prior to freezing or freeze drying or without partial solubilization. Only freeze-drying caused reduction in solubility and emulsifying capacity. Viscosity was greatest when samples were pre-solubilized. Emulsifying capacity was not; changed when samples were frozen and decreased when they were either freeze-dried or presolubilized. Optimum water-holding capacity occurred in samples which had been previously solubilized.