Ethanolic Extract of Moringa stenopetala Leaves Enhances the Quality Characteristics and Shelf-Life of Vacuum-Packed Pork Patty during Refrigeration Storage

Studies reported that the moringa plant provides various bioactive compounds. The present study investigated the effect of an ethanolic extract of Moringa stenopetala leaves (MLE) on the storage consistency of vacuum-packed pork patty during refrigeration storage (4°C). Four treatments prepared were: control (without any preservative) and patties blended with 0.1% MLE (MLE1), 0.05% MLE (MLE2), and 0.2% potassium sorbate (PS). Patties incorporated with 0.05 and 0.1% MLE scored significantly lower (P<0.05) pH values compared with the control at the final storage time and thiobarbituric acid reactive values as compared to both the control and PS treated patties throughout the study period. Moreover, patties added with MLE had a significantly lower (P<0.05) total plate count than the control and the count decreased concomitantly with an increase in MLE concentration. The addition of MLE (0.1 and 0.05%) presented significantly higher (P<0.05) redness (a*) values than the control across storage time. Sensory attributes of samples did not vary significantly (P>0.05), and all treatments had similar overall acceptability scores during storage. In conclusion, incorporation of 0.1% and 0.05% MLE suppressed microbial growth and delayed the onset of oxidative rancidity in pork patties during storage without any effect on the sensorial properties and overall acceptability. As an organic preservative, MLE can help in extending the shelf life of pork patties to satisfy the demands of modern consumers for organic, healthy, and safe food ingredients.