Effect of chitosan microcapsules loaded with nisin on the preservation of small yellow croaker

Chitosan-nisin (CS-nisin) microcapsules were prepared and characterized. Its preservation properties (chemical stability, microbiological stability, color and sensory properties) were examined during the storage of small yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena polyactis). The results showed that CS-nisin microcapsules were spherical in shape with particle size greater than 1 μm. A significantly higher efficiency of CS-nisin microcapsules in inhibiting microorganism growth, lipid oxidation and protein degradation was observed, extending the shelf life of small yellow croaker during the storage by 6–9 days in comparision with CS, nisin treatment alone or the control according to the TVC assay, suggesting a better preservation effect of the microcapsules.