Fish based Product-Keropok Lekor

Fish and fishery products have been important source of food for the people in this country. It has become the main source of protein supplier for the people of Malaysia. Many products can be produced through the processing of fish such as fish crackers, fish ball, surimi, fish fillet, satar ikan, nugget, burger and many more.

Fish crackers are a snack favored by people from various groups in this country as well as in neighboring countries. In Malaysia, the most popular fish crackers a known as keropok lekor. There are many companies who run their business processing crackers, especially in the state of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor and Kedah. Usually, in this state, keropok are processed from fish, shrimp or squid blended with starch or corn flour as main materials. They also added some salt, sugar and MSG as a seasoning to give a better taste and satisfaction. Species of fish that commonly used to process the keropok is sardines, scad, bream, howl coals, jackfruit seeds, conor and others.

According to the Food Regulations 1985, fish crackers shall be provided from fish and starch where their protein contents are not less than 15 percent. The quality of crackers usually depended on the freshness of the fish, the type of fish, the ratio of the main ingredients and the preparation process. The quality can also be evaluated in terms of flavor, crunchy and fluffy when it is fried in hot oil.