Role of ε-Poly-lysine in mixed surimi gel: concentration, underlying mechanism, and application

The effects of different concentrations of ε-Poly-lysine (ε-PL: 0.005%, 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.04%, and 0.06%) on the marine fish-egg white protein compound gels, treated with 0.4% TGase induced cross-linking were systematically investigated under low salt and phosphorus-free conditions (0.5% NaCl). The results showed the combination of ε-PL and TGase had a synergistic effect on improving sectional gel properties of composite surimi samples. Wherein the rheological, LF-NMR, and SEM results confirmed that the addition of ε-PL based on 0.4% TGase significantly improved the gel strength (to the highest value: 781.63 g·cm), apparent viscosity, and G 'value of the composite surimi sample, as well as reduced the internal water fluidity of surimi, accompanied by the emergence of a more dense and uniform gel network structure. Notably, ε-PL treatment significantly inhibited fat oxidation in the compound surimi gel and the degree of inhibition was proportional to its addition (decreased from 2.03 to 1.67 mg·kg⁻¹). However, the addition of a small amount (0.005%) or an excessive amount (0.06%) of ε-PL on the gel properties of composite surimi samples witnessed the negative effects of the changes in the internal water distribution state and the cooking loss. To sum up, moderate ε-PL (0.04%) treatment combined with TGase induction can maximize the performance of mixed surimi gel and inhibit fat oxidation. The research results supply a diverse perspective and theoretical basis for the development of 'low salt and no phosphorus' surimi product ingredients.