In Brazil, the production of surimi has not been fully explored though a significant increase in development of technology and marketing is expected, following international tendencies. Surimi represents a new source and a promising alternative for the development of food products with a high nutritional value (hamburgers, sausages, fish analogs), as well as the production of protein hydrolysates. The purpose of this study was to characterize surimi manufactured with two species of marine fishes and to contribute with the establishment of identity and quality standards. This product was analysed over one year in terms of chemical composition, calories, amino acid profiles and mercury levels. Moisture contents ranged from 79.5% to 88.7%, and seemed to be affected by compression force and also by the seasonal variation of fish species. Protein contents oscillated between 83.5 and 90.7%, on dry basis, fat contents were low and carbohydrate contents were negligible. Energy values ranged between 43 and 73 kcal/100 g with a mean value of 58 kcal/100 g wet product. The amino acid composition is well balanced and attends nutritional requirements. Total mercury concentrations were below the maximum level of 0.5 mgHg/kg determined by Brazilian laws.
surimi; chemical composition; seasonal variation; amino acid; mercury
