Improvement of oxidative stability and textural properties of fermented sausage via addition of pistachio hull extract.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of pistachio hull extract (PHE) as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent for preservation of dry fermented sausages during fermentation and storage period. Sausages were prepared using starter culture (Biobak K) and treated with three levels of PHE (500, 750 and 1,000 ppm). The results showed that PHE at concentrations of 500 ppm and 750 ppm decreased significantly (p < .05) the TBARS content of the sausage samples compared to control (without PHE). Moreover, PHE increased L* and a* value of samples during fermentation period but did not affect the color of samples during storage period. The PHE was also able to improve the chewiness and gumminess of the fermented sausage. Evaluation of microbial properties (total viable count, yeast and molds, lactic acid bacteria, staphylococci and Enterobacteriaceae) also showed that antimicrobial activity of PHE in fermented sausage.