Theses and Dissertations

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Schilling, M. Wes

Committee Member

Zhang, Xue

Committee Member

DuBien, Janice L.

Committee Member

Williams, Byron

Committee Member

Phillips, Thomas W.

Date of Degree

12-13-2024

Original embargo terms

Worldwide

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion (Food Science and Technology)

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Department

Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion

Abstract

Dry-cured hams may become infested with Tyrophagus putrescentiae (ham mites) during the aging process. Traditionally, methyl bromide (MB) fumigation has been used to control these infestations, but its phase-out due to environmental concerns has prompted the need for alternative methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness of acetic acid-coated ham nets and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based edible films with propylene glycol (PG) in mitigating mite infestations. Laboratory trials assessed the impact of these treatments on mite orientation, reproduction, infestation rates, and sensory quality. Results indicate that CMC films were effective at controlling mite growth and reproduction with minimal sensory impact. In contrast, acetic acid-coated nets offered some deterrence but failed to substantially control mite populations. This research suggests that CMC films with PG may be a viable and sustainable alternative to MB fumigation, though further testing is needed to verify that it is effective when commercially upscaled.

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