High pressure processing of shellfish: A review of microbiological and other quality aspects

High pressure (HP) processing is increasingly being used in the commercial processing of oysters, due to its minimal effects on sensory and nutritional quality, the opening or shucking of oysters during treatment, and the reduction of levels of Vibrio vulnificus, a pathogen of concern particularly in the US. However, little is known of the efficacy of HP treatment in reducing other pathogens in shellfish such as human enteric viruses, which are the predominant cause of shellfish-borne disease. This article reviews the inactivation of microorganisms of importance to shellfish, particularly viruses, the commercial HP processing of oysters and the advantages of HP technology as they pertain to the seafood industry.