An evaluation of the lamb and mutton carcase grading system in the Republic of South Africa. 4. The influence of age, carcase mass and fatness on meat quality characteristics
Year: 1987
Type: article
Abstract: A sample of 104 lamb and mutton carcases was selected on the market at an abattoir in three age groups and four mass classes representing five of the six fat classes of the classification system. The loin cut of the left side was used to evaluate the organoleptic characteristics. The M. longissimus thoracis was dissected from the left side to study the influence of age, carcase mass and fatness on collagen solubility, total collagen and pigment content of the muscle. As the age of lamb/sheep increased a decline was observed in the tenderness, juiciness, flavour, residue and collagen solubility of the meat. Results from a growth expriment indicated that after 4 months of age there was a marked decline in muscle collagen solubility. Carcase fatness was found to have an influence on certain meat quality characteristics and should not be ignored completely in a classification system. The influence of carcase mass on meat quality was in most instances negligible. As age of the animal plays such a predominany role on meat quality characteristics, age should be included as a parameter in any carcase classification or grading system. The current age grouping in the classification system should therefore remain unchanged, namely 0 tooth, 1 6 tooth and more than 6 tooth.
Authors: G.G. Bruwer, I. Grobler, M.N. Smit, R.T. Naudé, W. A. Vôsloo
Language: English
Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $500
OpenAlex ID: W2491991998