Comparative study on the composition and characteristics of giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) cultured using an alternative vertical-recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and traditional pond: Organoleptic and nutritional aspects

Abstract

The organoleptic and nutritional properties of giant river prawns cultivated in two aquaculture systems, the vertical-recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and the traditional pond (Pond), were examined. Proximate compositions of RAS and Pond did not show significant differences (P > 0.05). Regarding organoleptic properties, the color of RAS meat was noticeably paler, with reduced blueness, as indicated by higher L* and b* values (P < 0.05). This correlated with lower astaxanthin levels (21.23 μg/g) of the RAS compared to Pond (56.02 μg/g) (P < 0.05). RAS also had lower levels of adenosine monophosphate (AMP), inosine monophosphate (IMP), and other desirable volatiles, including aldehydes, suggesting a reduced desirable flavor/taste intensity. However, RAS had higher levels of tasty amino acids (umami/sweetness) such as Glu/Gln and Ala (P < 0.05). In terms of nutrition properties, Pond provided better fatty acid (FA) profiles, as indicated by a higher ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids/saturated fatty acids (PUFA/SFA) and a higher proportion of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3) (P < 0.05). Moreover, Pond also displayed a more balanced amino acid (AA) composition as indicated by the predicted protein efficiency ratio (P-PER) and the Leu/Ile ratio. Nevertheless, the FA and AA profiles of RAS still met satisfactory levels according to respective standards. In summary, the findings demonstrated that the alternative RAS provided adequate nutritional value but exhibited distinct organoleptic characteristics compared to the traditional pond. These differences may potentially impact customer acceptance and should be taken into consideration during the development of alternative aquaculture systems for this prawn species.