University Publications

The aim of this study is to compare the quality of solar tunnel and traditional sun and air dried fishes of Clarias lazera (Cuvier and Valenciennes) products in combination with salting and smoking as pre drying treatments. All experiments were carried out during the three seasons namely: summer, autumn and winter. Fish proximate composition including the determination of moisture, ash, oil and protein contents and caloric value were calculated. The levels of Na+, K+, Fe+2, Ca+2, Mg+2, Cu+2 and P+2 minerals were estimated. In addition, estimation of total counts and identification of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp. was carried out. The results showed significant effects of the interactions of seasons and drying methods on all the proximate constituents of the fresh treated samples (P <0.05). In salted dried products almost all the proximate constituents were significantly affected by the drying methods (P <0.05) except ether extract. The chemical constituents of smoked dried products were affected by the different drying methods (P <0.05) except ash content. The results have confirmed the concept of modernization and application of new technologies to replace the traditional techniques. In addition to the considerations of some hygiene measures leading to the promotion of the traditionally practiced fish preservation methods.