Iris Ann G. Borlongan, Joanna Pamela N. Malumay, Nenette Marie M. Po (February 2004)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to explore the possibility of producing pigments from tiger shrimp and blue crab wastes coming from processing plants. Specifically, the study aimed to determine and compare the percentage yield of pigments that can be extracted from these shell wastes. It also aimed to determine and compare the physical properties of the pigments extracted in terms of solubility, color, and odor. It further aimed to determine the total carotenoid content and composition of the extracted pigments.
The results of the study showed that percentage yield of pigments extracted from tiger shrimp waste (7.83%) was significantly higher than the percentage yield of pigments extracted from blue crab waste (3.69%). The pigments extracted from tiger shrimp and blue crab wastes were both very soluble in solvents like acetone and n-hexane, but only slightly soluble in chloroform, diethyl ether, carbon tetrachloride, water, and benzene. Both pigments were odorless. The tiger shrimp waste pigment had a red-orange color while blue crab waste pigment had an orange color. Approximately twice as much total carotenoids were present in the pigments extracted from tiger shrimp waste than that from blue crab waste. The major carotenoid type present in both pigments was astaxanthin, with B-carotene and zeaxanthin as other types present.