Developing a Quality Index grading tool for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × Morone chrysops) based on the Quality Index Method

A Quality Index Method (QIM) scheme was developed for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops). The new scheme is a convenient way to estimate storage time and remaining shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass stored in ice. It consists of eight descriptors resulting in a total allowable score or Quality Index (QI) of fourteen points. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to separate the effects of storage time and origin of fish. The calculated QI related linearly with storage days (QI = 0.483 × days in ice + 1.568, r2 = 0.934). Storage time of unknown samples can be predicted from this relationship with a prediction error of ±1.2 days. Using Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA), the maximum shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass was determined to be 14 days in ice.