Prediction and Visualization of Total Volatile Basic Nitrogen in Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) Using Shortwave Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging

In the present investigation, we have devised a hyperspectral imaging (HSI) apparatus to assess the chemical characteristics and freshness of the yellow croaker (<i>Larimichthys polyactis</i>) throughout its storage period. This system operates within the shortwave infrared spectrum, specifically ranging from 900 to 1700 nm. A variety of spectral pre-processing techniques, including standard normal variate (SNV), multiple scatter correction, and Savitzky-Golay (SG) derivatives, were employed to augment the predictive accuracy of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N)-which serves as a critical freshness parameter. Among the assessed methodologies, SG-1 pre-processing demonstrated superior predictive accuracy (R_p² = 0.8166). Furthermore, this investigation visualized freshness indicators as concentration images to elucidate the spatial distribution of TVB-N across the samples. These results indicate that HSI, in conjunction with chemometric analysis, constitutes an efficacious instrument for the surveillance of quality and safety in yellow croakers during its storage phase. Moreover, this methodology guarantees the freshness and safety of seafood products within the aquatic food sector.