Browsing by Subject "longissimus dorsi"

The literature review of this thesis focused on properties of pork meat, meat colour formation and the effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on microbiology and sensory characteristics of meat. The aim of the experimental work was to study the effects of MAP on microbiological and sensory quality of pork meat and to develop the most optimal modified atmosphere for consumer packages for pork loin (longissimus dorsi) roasts. The samples were stored in cold room at 5 ºC for 12 days after packaging (and for 15 days for microbiological analysis). The properties measured were: drip loss, pH, colour, cooking loss, tenderness and protein oxidation by measuring free thiol groups. In addition, microbiological analysis, sensory evaluation and consumer survey were carried out. Experimental part consisted of three different trials. In each trial, also the present packaging gas (f) used for the product was studied as a reference. After trials 1 and 2, it was concluded that packaging gas (b) was as the most optimal modified atmosphere for the product. At trial 3, packages (a), (b), (f) and (g) were studied. Samples in package (g) were more tender than samples in package (f) both in the instrumental measurements (p<0,001) and in sensory evaluation (p<0,05). Package (f) had more protein oxidation than other packages (p<0,01). Microbiological quality was good both in packages (b) and (f) and poorest in package (a) after 15 days of storage. Nevertheless, packaging (f) was rated significantly (p<0,001) higher in the consumer survey than package (b). It could be concluded that the present packaging gas (f) would still be the most optimal one for pork loin roasts, as the appearance of the meat is one of the most critical factors affecting consumers’ purchasing decision.