Case Study: The Journey to Find the Optimal Fish Drying Process - A Real-World Test with Mackerel & Goby at DeAir

A Story from the Coast: The Dream of Elevating Vietnamese Dried Fish

A seafood processing business in a coastal region possessed a significant competitive advantage: a superior supply of fresh horse mackerel and goby. With a strategic goal to expand their market share to major cities and eventually export, the business faced a persistent challenge: complete dependence on manual sun-drying, which is vulnerable to weather conditions.

An unstable production process and the risk of product spoilage during rainy seasons had caused considerable economic losses, becoming a direct barrier to their growth plans. The problem was how to standardize the production process, ensure consistent product quality, optimize shelf life, and completely eliminate weather-related risks.

To overcome this challenge, they turned to DeAir for an optimal technology solution. Our real-world testing story begins here, a testament to the importance of technology in advancing the seafood industry.

DeAir in the Lab: Designing a Comparative Drying Test

There is no better way to find the most reliable answer than through practical testing. DeAir's technical team designed a direct comparison test of two common pre-treatment methods, using Heat Pump drying technology to ensure the drying process occurs at low temperatures, preserving the fish's flavor and texture.

This technology is applied in our specialized Daxwell dryer series.

Drying Diary: Meticulously Documenting Each Step

The entire process was carefully documented by DeAir's technicians with images and precise measurements to ensure transparency and objectivity.

• Step 1: Receiving & Preparation:

  

• Step 2: Comparative Pre-treatment: Two batches of fish were prepared simultaneously using two methods: thawing only, and thawing followed by a quick blanch in boiling water.
• Step 3: Tray Loading & Machine Placement:

  

• Step 4: Weighing & Recording Results:

  

• Step 5: Operation & Monitoring: DeAir set an appropriate drying cycle and continuously monitored the temperature, humidity, time, and weight of each batch.

The Real-World Results: There Is No "Best" Process, Only the "Most Suitable" One

After the drying process was complete, the results provided invaluable insights, showing that each method has its own pros and cons. Precise control of humidity and temperature is a key factor in ensuring food safety, as standards from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have highlighted regarding the importance of controlling water activity in dried foods.

Consulting Conclusion: DeAir demonstrated that there is no single "best" process. The choice depends on the client's business goals: - For a premium, high-flavor dried fish product with a fast consumption cycle, the thawing-only method (Batch A) is the top choice. - For large-scale production, time optimization, and extended shelf life for wider distribution, the blanching method (Batch B) is more effective.

From Trial to Final Product: DeAir's Partnership with the Client

After obtaining the results, DeAir carefully packaged the finished products from both batches and sent them back to the client. Included was a detailed report with all parameters and consulting conclusions, providing the client with complete data to taste for themselves and make the final decision for their production process. This is a key part of the comprehensive dehumidifier solutions for the food industry that DeAir provides.

Do You Have a Product That Needs Test Drying? Contact DeAir!

The story above is a testament to DeAir's commitment: we don't just sell machines; we provide solutions. If you need to dry products like food, handicrafts, agricultural products, or seafood but haven't established a standard process, do not hesitate to contact us.

DeAir is ready to receive your product samples and conduct test drying with various cycles to help you find the most optimal process, ensuring both product quality and economic efficiency.