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Quality Standard of the Concha Prieta "Anadara tuberculosa" Bivalve Mollusk

Abstract:

This research aimed to design a quality standard for the bivalve mollusk "Concha Prieta" (Anadara tuberculosa). A documentary research methodology based on extensive bibliographic review was applied. As a result, the most relevant criteria were microbiological and toxicological, size and length, integrity and freshness, and raw protein content on a dry basis. The nutritional quality is based on its high protein content of high biological value, vitamins and minerals, and fatty acids, beneficial to the body. Consumers prefer them fresh, of large size, without apparent damage or presence of microbiological, chemical and toxicological contaminants that affect their safety. The original contribution of this study was the design of a quality standard based on indicators of microbiological and toxicological quality, those of physical and sensory quality, nutritional, and the estimated market values. It consists of five levels: Premium "A," Extra "B," Superior "C," Medium "D," and Unfit "E." The best level is Premium "A," which includes "Concha Prieta" without defects, free of biological or chemical contaminants, or values that are within the allowed limits, with a size equal to or greater than 50 mm. It is concluded that the most relevant indicators for the design of the quality standard were microbiological, toxicological, physical, organoleptic, and nutritional. The comprehensive management of these indicators will allow estimating the different values of the product in the market.