Alterations of free amino acid concentrations in the hemolymph in
response to changing salinity have been observed in many crustacean
species and presumably are a physiological response to changing osmoregulatory
needs. (Huong et al., 2001). Increases in the concentrations
of alanine, proline, glycine, arginine and lysine in the hemolymph
have been documented in freshwater prawns aswater salinity increases
(Huong et al., 2001). Similar changes in amino acid concentrations in
prawn tissues have also been noted (Tan and Choong, 1981).
This study was conducted to evaluate the survival of live freshwater
prawns that were subjected to different post-harvest salt treatments
and post-mortemmarination. In addition, the relationship among alterations
in salt content, flavor enhancers, and consumer acceptability of
the prawns was assessed. Salt treatments are expected to increase consumer
acceptability and make the prawn product more comparable in
flavor to marine species, potentially increasing market value. Comparison
of flavor and acceptability between live and post-mortem salt
treatments will help to identify the most effective method with regard
to time, cost and consumer preference.