Supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaves improves the safety and quality of fermented shrimp paste

Abstract

Terasi is a traditional fermented shrimp paste popularly consumed in Indonesia. Despite its widespread popularity and distinctive flavor, terasi consumption should be approached with caution due to the presence of harmful compounds linked to its degradation and declining quality. These compounds, including allergenic histamine and potentially carcinogenic acrylamide, form during the fermentation of terasi as a result of various chemical reactions and microbial activities. The objective of the current research was to enhance the safety and quality of shrimp paste by introducing Moringa oleifera leaves, locally known as daun kelor, that are rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds. The supplementation of M. oleifera leaves (5%(w/w) and 10%(w/w)) significantly reduced microbial growth, lipid peroxidation, as well as the formation of histamine and acrylamide in terasi fermented for 30 days. Moreover, the inclusion of M. oleifera leaves did not alter the sensory acceptance of terasi. Consequently, this study suggests that M. oleifera leaves have the potential to serve as an adjunct ingredient, enhancing both the safety and overall quality of terasi.