The use of vinegar was studied to reduce the growing number of illnesses caused by spoilage bacteria. The
antimicrobial activity of organic vinegar was studied on various bacterial species isolated from domestic channel
catfish fillets (Ictalurus punctatus). The effectiveness of the vinegar on the bacteria was measured. Bacteria isolated
from catfish fillets with the largest inhibition zone were identified through 16S rDNA sequencing to better understand
the spoilage bacteria that could be inhibited by vinegar to increase the quality of fishery products. Microbial changes
of catfish fillets were evaluated following treatments of vinegar marinades during storage at 4°C and sensory
evaluation was performed with baked catfish fillets to evaluate consumer sensory acceptability.
Fish and chip vinegar was the most effective on Shewanella putrefaciens isolated from catfish fillets from the
market and the pond. Microbial changes were evaluated and sensory evaluation was performed on different acetic
acid dilutions of vinegar. Results showed that vinegar diluted to 0.5% acetic acid on catfish fillets would be suitable
for prolonging shelf life and appealing to consumers. Vinegar as a natural antimicrobial product can improve the shelf
life and safety of food products providing acceptable sensory quality at an affordable price and reducing economic
lost due to spoiled catfish and other food products.