Bisnisrakyat.id - The fisheries industry plays an important role in meeting world food needs. In the processing of fishery products, the use of food additives (BTP) is often necessary to maintain quality, extend shelf life, and increase the product's appeal to consumers. However, the use of BTP must meet food safety standards so as not to endanger consumer health. This article will discuss the importance of safe food additives in the fishing industry, the types used, and their benefits.

The Importance of Food Additives

BTP is used for a variety of purposes, from preservation to flavor enhancement. In the fishing industry, fish and their derivative products are very susceptible to damage due to their high water content and perishable nature. BTP helps slow the deterioration process, maintain nutritional value, and provide an attractive appearance to the product.

The safe use of BTP ensures that fishery products remain of high quality without endangering consumer health. These safety standards are regulated by various regulatory bodies, such as BPOM in Indonesia, which requires the use of BTP to comply with permitted limits.

Types of Safe Food Additives

1. Preservative
   Preservatives are used to prevent the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage and food poisoning. Examples of preservatives that are safe to use in the fishing industry are sorbic acid, sodium benzoate, and nitrite. The use of preservatives must be in accordance with the specified dosage to avoid health risks.
    
2. Antioxidant
   Antioxidants play an important role in preventing fat oxidation which causes rancidity in fish products. Examples of antioxidants that are often used are BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene).
    
3. Dye
   Dyes are used to increase the visual appeal of fishery products, such as surimi or other processed products. Natural dyes, such as paprika extract or carotenoids, are recommended because they are safer and have a lower risk of allergies than synthetic dyes.
    
4. Thickeners and Stabilizers
   This ingredient helps improve the texture of processed fishery products, such as fish balls or fish nuggets. Examples are xanthan gum and carrageenan.
    
5. Flavor Enhancer (Taste Enhancer)
   These additional ingredients improve the taste of fishery products, making them more palatable to consumers. An example that is often used is monosodium glutamate (MSG) in safe amounts according to standards.
    

Benefits of Safe Use of BTP

Safe use of BTP provides various benefits for the fishing industry, including:

• Extends shelf life: Fishery products last longer without reducing quality.
• Maintain food safety: Products are free from harmful microorganisms that can cause disease.
• Increases consumer appeal: Better appearance, taste, and texture increase consumer interest.
• Reduced waste: Long-lasting products reduce the risk of waste due to damage.

Read more: The Implementation of HACCP in Food Production: Enhancing Product Safety and Quality ; Citric Acid: Uses and Benefits in Food Products ; Warehouse Racking: An Efficient Storage System for Warehouse Operations

Conclusion

BTP that is safe and complies with regulations is very important for the fishing industry to maintain product quality and protect consumer health. Manufacturers must always ensure that the use of BTP follows the safety standards set by the relevant authorities. In this way, the fishing industry can continue to develop sustainably and provide maximum benefits for society.