Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the alcoholic extract of date seed powder on the chemical and physical properties of refrigerated fish products during storage (1–12 days) and to compare its effectiveness as a natural preservative with the control treatment (T1). Processed fingerlings of mullet fish were used in five treatments: a control (T1) and four treatments with increasing concentrations of the extract, reaching 1.5% in treatment T5. Samples were stored at 4 ± 1°C and periodically analyzed for chemical spoilage indicators (PV, TBA, FFA, TVN) and physical properties such as moisture, fat, protein, and water-holding capacity. Results showed that prolonged storage caused gradual quality deterioration, especially in the control treatment. In contrast, treatments containing the extract—particularly T5—reduced the rate of chemical degradation and preserved product quality. GC-MS analysis identified bioactive compounds such as palmitic acid, oleic acid, vitamin E, and beta-sitosterol, enhancing the extract’s antioxidant activity. These findings confirm the effectiveness of the extract as a natural, safe preservative for improving the shelf life and quality of fish products.