Description
Clams are the most expensive seafood products because they have a low yield compared to other bivalve’s molluscs. Venerupis corrugata (pullet carpet shell) is a premium European native clams’ species due to high gastronomic, nutritional and economic value, found and appreciated in Portugal. This species is highly perishable. It is typically sold alive within three or four days under refrigeration. The shelf-life period is defined based on the time the clams are alive. Significant risk of loss and waste exists during this period and efforts to extend its shelf-life are relevant. This study aimed to evaluate the shelf-life and physiological quality of live V. corrugata clams stored at 3 ± 1 °C in different packaging systems evaluating the effect of high-oxygen modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) versus ambient air, and of physical confinement in net bags versus loose storage. Survival percentage, gases concentration, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pH, glycogen content, and biogenic amines were monitored throughout storage (7 days). Results showed that survival and physiological quality were strongly influenced by the combined effects of oxygen availability and confinement. Highoxygen MAP delayed mortality by sustaining aerobic metabolism for longer, thereby reducing the respiration quotient. Physical confinement was critical in maintaining intravalvular liquid and preserving clam viability. Nevertheless, the modelled survivability extension was limited to only 1 day under optimal MAP conditions and confinement, highlighting the intrinsic sensitivity of this species.| Period | 27 Oct 2025 |
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| Held at | Universidade Católica Portuguesa |
| Degree of Recognition | Master |