Flavour is an important sensory aspect of the overall acceptability of meat products. Whether we accept or reject a food depends primarily on its flavour. Both desirable and undesirable flavour effects are contemplated. Furthermore, threshold values of different flavour-active compounds have an important effect on the cumulative sensory properties of all foods. Meat from different species constitutes a major source of protein for most people. Although raw meat has little flavour and only a blood-like taste, it is a rich reservoir of non-volatile compounds with taste-tactile properties as well as flavour enhancers and aroma precursors. Non-vola tile water-soluble precursors and lipids influence the flavour of meat from different species. In addition, mode of heat processing and the nature of additives used may have a profound effect on the flavour of prepared meats. This book reports the latest advancements in meat flavour research. Following a brief overview, chapters 2 to 5 discuss flavours from different species of meat, namely beef, pork, poultry and mutton. In chapters 6 to 12 the role of meat constituents and processing on flavour are described. The final section of the book (chapters 13 to 15) summarizes analytical methodologies for assessing the flavour quality of meats. I wish to thank all the authors for their cooperative efforts and com mendable contributions which have made this publication possible.

The first edition of Flavor of Meat and Meat Products was described as 'the best compilation of data on meat flavor yet published.' This edition has now been updated and extended to include the latest developments concerning both meat and fish flavor. It presents the latest research on species flavors, cured meat flavor, methods of assessment of flavor quality and consequences of meat deterioration. The coverage is divided into three parts which deal with species flavors, the effects of constituents and processing on flavor, and the analytical methods, chemical and sensory, of assessing meat flavor. The book is highly recommended for scientists and technologists in the meat and seafood industries. It is also of value to sensory scientists, quality managers and marketing personnel.

Retitled to reflect expansion of coverage from the first edition, Handbook of Meat and Meat Processing, Second Edition, contains a complete update of materials and nearly twice the number of chapters. Divided into seven parts, the book covers the entire range of issues related to meat and meat processing, from nutrients to techniques for preservation and extending shelf life. Topics discussed include: An overview of the meat-processing industry The basic science of meat, with chapters on muscle biology, meat consumption, and chemistry Meat attributes and characteristics, including color, flavor, quality assessment, analysis, texture, and control of microbial contamination The primary processing of meat, including slaughter, carcass evaluation, and kosher laws Principles and applications in the secondary processing of meat, including breading, curing, fermenting, smoking, and marinating The manufacture of processed meat products such as sausage and ham The safety of meat products and meat workers, including sanitation issues and hazard analysis Drawn from the combined efforts of nearly 100 experts from 16 countries, the book has been carefully vetted to ensure technical accuracy for each topic. This definitive guide to meat and meat products it is a critical tool for all food industry professionals and regulatory personnel.

There is little doubt that today’s food industry is faced with a rapidly changing market landscape. The obvious need to continue to provide consumers with nutritious, delectable, safe, and affordable food products which are also profitable for food manufacturers, as well as the ongoing challenge of ensuring the delivery of adequate nutrition to hundreds of millions of disadvantaged people around the world, appears – at least as much as, if not more than, ever – to be at odds with the challenges posed by soaring energy and food commodity prices; fast-paced changes in consumer demographics, habits, and preferences; and the continual need to stay ahead of current and emerging food safety issues. In addition to this, the present ubiquity in the industry of terms such as functional foods, nutraceuticals, low sodium, low fat, clean label, minimal processing, and natural – to name a few – underscores yet a different dimension of the challenges faced by food processors today. On the other hand, however, the solutions of many of these challenges may, concurrently, present the food industry with unique and exciting opportunities. The processed meat industry, despite its long history and tradition, is certainly not exempt from having to face these modern challenges, nor excluded from realizing the promises of the opportunities that may lie ahead.

There has been increasing interest in recent years in the concept and production of natural foods. Advertising claims that food is natural, without additives or artificial ingredients, have taken on great importance in marketing. Consumption of food that can be considered natural is currently central to the sophisticated lifestyle. However, there is only a limited published literature on what constitutes natural food flavours. Much of the flavour and fragrance industry has worked on development of synthetic or 'nature-identical' flavours which represent a chemist's simu lation of the natural character. As marketing claims become more strident it is necessary to gain a better understanding of natural food flavours in order to safeguard food quality and for prevention of fraud. There have been great advances recently in analytical chemistry, and partly as a result of this progress there seems to be a never-ending increase in the number of volatile compounds identified in foods. Unfortunately, this has not always been matched by an equal increase in the understanding of how these volatile compounds arise, or how they contribute to the sensation which we call flavour. Throughout the development of Western society, quality of food, particularly flavour, has been highly regarded. The amateur or professional cook with the skills to optimize and maintain standards in flavour has been held in the highest respect.

The Handbook of Meat, Poultry and Seafood Quality commences with a discussion of basic scientific factors responsible for the quality of fresh, frozen and processed muscle foods, especially sensory attributes and flavors. Following sections discuss factors affecting the quality of beef, pork, poultry, and seafood. Under each muscle food, some or all of the following factors affecting the quality are discussed:.:.; additives.; aroma.; color.; contaminants.; flavors.; microbiology.; moisture.; mouthfeel.; nutrition.; packaging.; safety.; sensory attributes.; shelf-life.; stability.; tainting.; t.

This lively book examines recent trends in animal product consumption and diet; reviews industry efforts, policies, and programs aimed at improving the nutritional attributes of animal products; and offers suggestions for further research. In addition, the volume reviews dietary and health recommendations from major health organizations and notes specific target levels for nutrients.