Insect infestation in dried fishes

Abstract

Dried fish forms a major source of protein in a number of equatorial countries. Dried fishery products frequently suffer severe losses due to infestation by flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), beetles (Dermestes, Cornestes, and Necrobia spp.), and mites (Lardoglyphus and Lyrophagus spp.).Dried fish contaminated by both insects and harmful insecticides comprises about 80 percent of the total dried products that is considered unfit for human consumption. The losses have been attributed to net reductions in the amount of nutrients available to the consumer (nutritive quality) resulting to declining consumer acceptability and market prices (economic losses) or both quantitative and qualitative losses. Irradiation has distinct advantages over other commercial methods of pest control. Apart from being less energy consuming than fumigation, it does not leave toxic residues in the product. It has been observed that a dose of 0.5 kGy can effectively disinfest dried fish and fishery products at a moisture level of below 40%.