Recovered Protein and Reconditioned Water from Surimi Processing Waste

Micro- and ultrafiltration were utilized for recovery of proteins and for water recycling from commercial surimi processing waste water. The proteins recovered by microfiltration showed highly functional properties and composition comparable with proteins in regular surimi. Surimi with a substitution (10%) of recovered proteins did not diminish in gel hardness, elasticity, color, or water retention. Aerobic plate count, chemical oxygen demand, protease activity, and turbidity in the surimi waste waters were reduced by ultrafiltration. Results indicated a potential for re covering proteins to extend yield and recycling water