The effect of differences in fat content (5.3% and 20.8%) on the rheological characteristics and microstructure of meat batters in the course of heating was studied. Rheological properties were assessed using nondestructive measurements (thermal scanning rigidity monitor) and structural failure (penetration test) analyses. Microstructure was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The influence of fat content on the modulus of rigidity (G) only became evident as gel structures began to form, giving higher G values for meat batters the higher the fat content of the sample. As the temperature was raised in the product (between 40 and 70° C), penetration stress and elasticity increased. The work of penetration, on the other hand, increased between 40 and 60° C, remaining steady at higher temperatures. Analysis of the results on the basis of different treatments indicates that an increase in fat content significantly raises penetration stress, elasticity and work of penetration. Increased temperature causes the formation of a matrix structure typical of heat-induced protein gels, which became compact and determine the formation of stronger, more elastic structures. Differences in microstructure caused by fat content were more evident at low temperature (40° C). © 1993 Springer-Verlag.

This research work was supported by the Comisión Interministerial de Ciencia y Tecnologia (CICYT) under Proyect ALI91-0927-C02-01,02.

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