Research Article
Perschbacher P and Xie L*
Abstract
Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) with a golden pigment and black spots were discovered during harvest of a University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) experimental channel catfish production pond. Golden catfish were mixed with catfish of normal pigmentation and of similar sizes. Following the observation that differences existed in algal-off flavor, three golden and three normal pigmented harvestable catfish were hand-filleted and proximate and sensory evaluations performed. Golden catfish were significantly lower in percent protein, and total fat, but higher in moisture and ash. Lower lipid levels would account for less off-flavor compounds in golden fish. A lipid profile was performed with both pigmented fishes at a later date from fish cultured separately in the same pond. No significant differences in lipid percentages were found. Taste tests were performed on two occasions with two batches of golden and normal catfish. Six of eight panelists preferred microwaved golden fillet samples for the milder flavor, less toughness, and less greasy/metallic aftertaste. Other golden variant cultured fishes have been evaluated and results are similar. As possible management and willingness to pay benefits appear to exist, further evaluations are recommended.