Novel Emerging Processing Technologies: A New Wave in Seafood Quality and Safety
The global seafood industry plays a vital role in food security and economic development but
faces challenges such as stagnant marine capture production, high post-harvest losses, food
safety risks, and growing demand for minimally processed products. Marine landings have
plateaued at 78–80 million tonnes since 1990, while post-harvest losses reach nearly 35%,
necessitating advanced preservation approaches. Emerging technologies including high
pressure processing (HPP), pulsed light, ultrasound, cold plasma, ozone treatment, irradiation,
radiofrequency thawing, microwave and ohmic heating, vacuum cooling, and sous-vide
cooking provide effective alternatives to conventional thermal methods. These non-thermal or
minimally thermal techniques ensure microbial inactivation while preserving omega-3 fatty
acids, texture, colour, and sensory quality. By improving efficiency, reducing energy
consumption and chemical preservatives, and extending shelf life, these innovations support
sustainable and high-quality seafood processing systems.