Factors Affecting the Emulsifying Capacity of Bovine Muscle and Muscle Proteins

Abstract

ABSTRACTSemitendinosus muscle samples were excised prerigor from 64 crossbred beef animals. Eight animals of each sex condition (bullocks and steers) were slaughtered when they reached age end–points of 8‐, 12‐12‐, 16‐ and 20‐months. The results indicated a significant effect of sex on all hydrometric muscle properties. The values for these traits were generally higher in muscle from bullocks. These differences were especially pronounced in animals 16 months and older. Sex had little effect on muscle pH or the percentages of salt soluble, extractable, and total muscle protein. However, most traits were highly correlated with age. No significant effects of sex regardless of age on emulsifying capacity were noted and many of these traits were unaffected by animal age between 16 and 20 months. Although older animals have less salt soluble protein, its emulsifying capacity is greater and more efficient.