Shelf-Life Estimation of Dried Sago Noodles Using the Accelerated Shelf-Life Testing (ASLT) Method

Abstract

Indonesia holds significant potential for sago (Metroxylon sp.) development, especially in the eastern regions. Sago starch offers an alternative to wheat flour in noodle production, promoting local food diversification. This study aims to estimate the shelf-life of dried sago noodles using the Accelerated Shelf-Life Testing (ASLT) method based on selected quality parameters. Dried sago noodles were produced from sago starch sourced from Merauke, South Papua, and stored at 35°C, 45°C, and 55°C. Quality attributes—moisture content, aroma, and taste—were analyzed during storage to model degradation kinetics and determine activation energy (Ea) using the Arrhenius approach. Among the tested parameters, aroma exhibited the lowest activation energy (636.04 cal/mol), indicating it as the critical parameter for predicting shelf-life. Based on the regression of ln k versus 1/T, the shelf-life at 27°C (room temperature) was estimated at 49 days. The study concludes that aroma degradation is the key factor in determining the shelf-life of dried sago noodles, and that accurate sensory evaluation using trained panelists is crucial for improving the reliability of shelf-life prediction.