Proteolytic processing of Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and biochemical characterisation of hydrolysates

P>Research on fish composition has demonstrated that they constitute a promising source of molecules with health benefits. In the present study, Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) was processed using Protamex (R) and the distribution of nutrients in various fractions obtained following membrane filtration was analysed. The fish starting material was approximately 84% water and the dry matter contained 42.7% proteins, 45.2% lipids and 5.6% minerals. The recovery of fish dry matter in the liquid hydrolysate was 77.8%. Most of the fractions were protein-enriched and characterised by a well-balanced amino acid composition, notably in terms of the most essential amino acids and by molecules of relatively low molecular weight (< 42 kDa). Even before process optimising, the biochemical and nutritional analyses indicate that the Atlantic mackerel may provide high-value products for future applications in the health and food sectors.