The inhibitory action of lactocin 63 on deterioration of seabass (Lateolabrax japonicus) during chilled storage

Background The bacteriocins, particularly derived from lactic acid bacteria, currently exhibit potential as a promising food preservative owing to their low toxicity and potent antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of lactocin 63, produced by Lactobacillus coryniformis, in inhibiting the deterioration of Lateolabrax japonicas during chilled storage, while also investigating its underlying inhibitory mechanism. The measurement of total viable count, biogenic amines, and volatile organic compounds were conducted, along with high‐throughput sequencing and sensory evaluation. Results The findings demonstrated that treatment with lactocin 63 resulted in a notable retardation of bacterial growth in L. japonicas fish fillet during refrigerated storage compared with the water‐treated and nisin‐treated groups. Moreover, lactocin 63 effectively maintained the microbial flora balance in the fish fillet and inhibited the proliferation and metabolic activity of specific spoilage microorganisms, particularly Shewanella, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. Furthermore, the production of unacceptable volatile organic compounds (e.g. 1‐octen‐3‐ol, hexanal, nonanal), as well as the biogenic amines derived from the bacterial metabolism, could be hindered, thus preventing the degradation in the quality of fish fillets and sustaining relatively high sensory quality. Conclusion The results of this study provide valuable theoretical support for the development and application of lactocin 63, or other bacteriocins derived from lactic acid bacteria, as potential bio‐preservatives in aquatic food. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.