Effect of formaldehyde on protein cross-linking and gel forming ability of surimi from lizardfish induced by microbial transglutaminase

► FA had a negative effect on protein cross-linking and gel forming ability of lizardfish surimi. ► MTGase could improve the gel strength of surimi containing FA to lower degree. ► FA lowered ε-amino group of lysine in protein, hence impeding protein cross-linking induced by MTGase.