Yield and centesimal composition of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) by different processing forms and weight categories

The industrial processing of tambaqui needs better standardization of cuts for greater appreciation in the current consumer market. This also includes knowledge of its composition by weight category. The objective of this study was to analyze the yield and the bromatological composition of the loin and ribs of tambaqui in distinct categories of weight. A total of 48 specimens were used to evaluate the yield of fillet, carcass, viscera and heads. The flesh was separated in loin and rib for assessments of moisture, protein, total lipids and mineral matter contents. The results showed that tambaquis with lower weight presented lower viscera yield and higher fillet yield (p <0.05). The data of centesimal composition evidenced an increase in the total lipid content in the loins of animals with more than 2,000 g of weight. In addition, higher ash content was observed in fish loins with less than 500 g of weight, possibly due to the presence of intramuscular spines in the analyzed samples. The study demonstrated differences in yield and nutritional composition that should be considered by the processing industry as strategy tools for commercialization and valorization of these species.