What You Need to Know
Fermenting seal oil involves the action of microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria and yeast, breaking down fatty acids and increasing shelf life and nutritional value. This process can occur at temperatures between 10°C to 20°C and takes several weeks to months.
Key Parameters
Equipment
stone fermentation pitsseal stomach containersdriftwood paddles
Steps
- 1.
Kiviak (Greenland): Preservation method for seabirds stuffed in seal skin
- 2.
Igunaq (Canadian Arctic): Fermented walrus or seal meat preparation
- 3.
Suaasat (Inuit): Traditional soup using fermented seal oil as flavor base
The Science
Primary Reaction
Lipid hydrolysis and oxidation