Processing of crawfish (Procambarus clarkii) for the preparation ofcarotenoproteins and chitin

摘要

Crawfish carotenoproteins and chitin are obtained by a combined process based on flotation-sedimentation and in situ lactic add production. The carotenoprotein PF1 obtained has a high content in essential amino acids, w-3-fatty acids, and carotene (mainly astaxanthin) and constitutes an excellent nutritional source for patients with malnutrition. The carotenoprotein PF2 has a lower nutritional quality but with a substantial carotene content can be used as a feed for animals where coloration is required, such as salmon and trout bred under aquaculture. Chemical and spectrometric (FTIR and C-13 NMR) characterization shows the obtained chitin to be of high quality, similar to that available commercially, for medical and nutritional uses.