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A total of 134 fresh hams, assayed for Ferrochelatase (FeCH) activity and ultimate pH (pH 48), were processed in compliance with the procedures established for PDO Parma ham and finally, analyzed for salt, moisture, Zinc Protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP), heme, iron and zinc contents, and proteolysis index (PI). The variation in ZnPP content was related to the intrinsic parameters of fresh and matured hams by a Partial Least Square Regression model. The most favorable factors on the formation of ZnPP were total iron content (representative of the initial hemoprotein content), and FeCH activity, demonstrating the main role played by these raw matter-specific predictors in the long matured dry-cured hams. To a lesser extent, zinc content and pH 48 were involved with a positive and negative role, respectively. Salt content and PI of matured hams showed an inhibitory and a favorable influence, respectively, toward the ZnPP formation. Principal Component Analysis showed the associations between the sensory red color profile and the physicochemical traits of matured hams. The red color intensity increased in agreement with the red-violet and red-pink hues scores. The formation of a high amount of ZnPP was associated with the increased perception of the red-violet shade, with a lower lightness (L *) and Hue angle (h °). Moisture increase contributed to the shift in color perception to red-pink, while marked progress in PI strengthened the perception of the red-brown shade. ZnPP and final heme favored the red color of matured hams, although a high concentration of these pigments increased in particular the red-violet perception. • High iron content and Ferrochelatase activity of fresh hams favored ZnPP formation. • Increasing salt concentration depressed ZnPP formation in matured ham. • High ZnPP and heme contents decreased L* , b* and Hue angle of lean surface. • High contents of ZnPP and heme increased the red-violet shade of red color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the bioprotective effect of Carnobacterium maltaromaticum (CM) against Pseudomonas fluorescens (PF) and Brochothrix thermosphacta (BT) in ground beef and sliced cooked ham stored in high- and low-oxygen-modified atmospheres (66/4/30% O 2 /N 2 /CO 2 and 70/30% N 2 /CO 2, respectively). Both meat products were inoculated with CM, PF, and BT individually or in combination and stored for 7 days (3 days at 4 °C + 4 days at 8 °C) for ground beef and 28 days (10 days at 4 °C + 18 days at 8 °C) for sliced cooked ham. Each food matrix was assigned to 6 treatments: NC (no bacterial inoculation, representing the indigenous bacteria of meat), CM, BT, PF, CM + BT, and CM + PF. Bacterial growth, pH, instrumental color, and headspace gas composition were assessed during storage. CM counts remained stable from inoculation and throughout the shelf-life. CM reduced the population of inoculated and indigenous spoilage bacteria, including BT, PF, and enterobacteria, and showed a negligible impact on the physicochemical quality parameters of the products. Furthermore, upon simulating the shelf-life of ground beef and cooked ham, a remarkable extension could be observed with CM. Therefore, CM could be exploited as a biopreservative in meat products to enhance quality and shelf-life. • Carnobacterium maltaromaticum (CM) was assessed to inhibit spoilage in meat. • CM counts remained stable during the storage of ground beef and cooked ham. • CM inhibited both inoculated and indigenous B. thermosphacta and P. fluorescens. • CM caused a minor impact on the physicochemical parameters of meat products. • CM can be potentially used as biopreservative in meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt content variability of dry-cured ham production is a challenge for the industry since many factors can influence salt uptake during the salting procedure. The aim of this work was to define and evaluate different modifications of the salting procedure to reduce the salt content variability of an industrial dry-cured ham production. Results showed that magnetic induction (MI) is a valid technology for industrial purposes as it can predict in-line the fat and salt contents of hams with a percentage error of 1.75% and 0.38%, respectively. Modifications of the salting process defined according to raw material characteristics obtained in-line reduced the salt content variability (SD) of the global production from 0.337% to 0.283%. Moreover, a 25% reduction of the salt content variability in hams of similar weight and fat content could be achieved when using a reclassification of the defined categories with MI technology after 6 days of salting. Because of the complexity of the salting process, new tools combined with strategies need to be investigated and developed to overcome the variability coming from other sources than weight and the fat content of hams. • Fat and salt contents are estimated with magnetic induction (MI) under industrial conditions. • Fat content estimated with MI is useful for industrial classification purposes. • Salting time can be adjusted with MI to achieve a target salt content. • Reclassification during salting with MI reduces the salt content variability by up to 25%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt content standardization in dry-cured ham production is complex as there are many factors that influence salt uptake. The aim of this work was to study and model salt uptake as a function of salting time and the characteristics of green ham in two different ham types using a large amount of data obtained from an inline non-invasive characterization technology. The usefulness of these models to standardize the salt content of the industrial production was also evaluated. Magnetic induction technology was used to characterize lean and fatty hams in order to further model the salt uptake using different statistical methods. Salt content increased with the salting time showing an asymptotic behaviour which was lower in fatty hams. The best models were those that considered the salting time, weight, and fat content of hams as model independent variables. These models are helpful for salt content standardization within the industry and can be used to simulate process modifications and avoid the time-consuming and costly trial and error tests. • Salt content standardization of the dry-cured ham (DCH) production is complex. • Traditional DCH classification systems are not sufficient to reduce salt content variability. • Massive data obtained non-invasively shows salt uptake follows asymptotic behaviour. • Fatty hams showed lower salt uptake values than lean hams throughout salting. • Salt uptake predictive models can help to standardize the production salt content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the use of the S-nitrosothiols, S-nitroso- N -acetylcysteine (NAC-SNO) and S-nitroso- N -acetylcysteine ethyl ester (NACET-SNO), at different concentrations (25–300 mg nitrite equivalent – NEq/kg) as sodium nitrite substitutes in restructured cooked hams. The pH value and instrumental cured color were not affected by the type or amount of curing agent used. Products with 25 and 50 mg/kg ingoing nitrite had lower thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance values than those with equimolar amounts of S-nitrosothiols. Products with >150 mg NEq/kg of S-nitrosothiols had residual nitrite similar to 50 mg/kg nitrite, and this resulted in the same volatile compound profile as nitrite added in equimolar amounts. A 300 mg NEq/kg of S-nitrosothiols was required to obtain a similar and minimally stable cured pink color perception as sliced samples with 50–150 mg/kg added nitrite. The results obtained reinforce the great potential of both alternative curing agents in the complete replacement of nitrite by equimolar amounts in restructured cooked products; however, differences in cured color stability should be considered. • Equimolar amounts of S-nitrosothiols generate CIE cure color equivalent to nitrite (NEq). • S-nitrosothiols above 150 mg NEq/kg generates residual nitrite equal to 50 mg/kg nitrite. • S-nitrosothiols above 50 mg NEq/kg has the same antioxidant activity as nitrite. • Sliced hams with added S-nitrosothiols have less curing color stability than nitrite. • The same cured color perception as nitrite was achieved using 300 mg NEq/kg S-nitrosothiols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) was assessed for storage temperature discrimination (4 °C ± 2 vs. 20 °C ± 2) and for the prediction of the length of time that sliced Duroc dry-cured ham was in storage, considering the following packaging types; vacuum (n = 133) and modified atmosphere (MAP) (n = 133), without opening the package. The models, obtained by means of Partial least squares-discriminant analysis, indicated successful classification of the product according to storage temperature after validation (accuracy values of 100.00% in vacuum and between 92.00 and 100% in MAP). Furthermore, good accuracy was obtained for the assignments into storage times, with values comprised between 92.31% and 100.00% for samples under vacuum and between 91.00% and 97.00% for those under MAP, in both cases after validation. Thus, NIRS technology could help to support the preservation temperature traceability and the stocks of sliced dry-cured hams. • Storage temperature and time of Duroc dry-cured ham resulted in spectral variations. • Storage temperature of Duroc dry-cured ham could be traced by NIRS. • Duroc dry-cured ham storage time could be predicted without opening the package. • NIRS could help to support quality control and traceability of dry-cured products. • NIRS may simplify the logistics of dry-cured products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The typical dry-cured ham flavor is rich in umami and brothy perceptions, for which short peptides may contribute. Particularly, γ-glutamyl peptides could be the responsible of these previously reported attributes, as they exert a synergistic interaction with other basic tastes and modify the intensity of salty, sweet, and umami tastes. The content of peptides has been reported to evolve along the processing, but no kokumi γ-glutamyl peptides have been identified in Spanish dry-cured hams yet. In this research, nine γ-glutamyl dipeptides (γ-EA, γ-EC, γ-EE, γ-EF, γ-EL, γ-EM, γ-EV, γ-EW, and γ-EY) and two γ-glutamyl tripeptides (GSH and γ-EVG) have been quantitated at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months of traditional processing of Spanish dry-cured ham by performing a Q Exactive Orbitrap-based tandem mass spectrometry. The results show an increase of γ-EA, γ-EE, γ-EF, γ-EL, γ-EM and γ-EVG, obtaining maximums at 24 months of curing ranging from 0.14 (γ-EVG) to 18.86 (γ-EL) μg/g dry-cured ham. Otherwise, γ-EV, γ-EW and γ-EY accumulated until the 18th month of storage to 15.10, 0.54 and 3.17 μg/g dry-cured ham, respectively; whereas γ-EC and GSH amounts decreased starting from 0.0676 and 4.41 μg/g dry-cured ham, respectively at earlier stages. The concentration dynamics of these compounds may be linked with proteolytic and oxidative reactions during processing. In addition, due to their synergistic effect on kokumi activity, this could constitute insights of the brothy perceptions of dry-cured ham, and these peptides probably contribute to the sensory differences existing in long processed Spanish dry-cured hams. • Many γ-glutamyl peptides were quantitated along the processing of dry-cured ham. • γ-EA, γ-EE, γ-EF, γ-EL, γ-EM and γ-EVG exhibited an accumulation with time. • γ-EV, γ-EW and γ-EY reached a maximum at the 18th month of dry-curing. • γ-EC and γ-ECG were consumed from earlier processing. • These kokumi peptides may play a key role in dry-cured ham flavor development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to optimise the acceptability of reduced-salt cooked ham containing a mixture of glycine and yeast extract as flavourings by using response surface methodology. Twelve different formulations were prepared with varying levels of salt and the two flavourings, according to a mixture design. The sensory properties were assessed along with the instrumental texture and colour. A multiple factor analysis showed that higher scores in tenderness, saltiness and juiciness were positively correlated, whereas instrumental hardness and chewiness were negatively correlated with acceptability. Response surface plots and optimisation software allowed the inference of two optimised formulations: HO1 with 1.3% salt and yeast extract content of 0.33%; and HO2 with 1.27% salt, 0.2% yeast extract and 0.16% glycine. A panel of 100 consumers found no significant differences in overall acceptability when both were compared to a control (1.63% salt). These results show it is possible to manufacture consumer accepted cooked ham with up to 20% salt reduction. • Cooked ham with up to 20% salt reduction was optimised with flavourings. • Yeast extract and glycine successfully acted as flavourings in cooked ham. • Response Surface Methodology was used for optimisation. • Multiple Factor Analysis correlated physicochemical and sensory properties. • No differences were found in a consumer acceptance test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, processed meat consumers have drastically revised their consumption patterns and have gained an increasing awareness of related health concerns. Although several studies have examined the role of meat products in the human diet, we observed a certain scarcity in the multi-perspective approach to the health implications of cocked ham. Therefore, we decided to verify different sources of potentially unhealthy constituents by simultaneously analysing the role that saturated fats, salt and nitrites play in consumer perception. The purpose of this paper was to investigate consumer preferences for healthier processed meat, in particular the specific objective of this study was to evaluate the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics and the components or additives that could pose a risk to the health of consumers, by considering the sensory and marketing characteristics involved in the choice of cooked ham. With these aims, two different analyses on stated preferences were carried out: firstly, a principal component analysis was performed to identify the main consumer attitudes towards meat products; subsequently, a conjoint analysis was carried out in order to identify the descriptive attributes. The results show that the presence of high salt content and nitrites discourage the intention to purchase, as the presence of a high fat content also does, however at the same time, consumers attach importance to taste, colour and juiciness that are strongly influenced by the above mentioned potentially unhealthy compounds. The overall results are strongly consistent with previous studies but evidence a certain dichotomy between sensory properties and health attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined effect of temperature, water activity (a w) and NaCl content, usually found in dry-cured ham, on the growth and expression of the virulence and stress-related genes of Listeria monocytogenes was evaluated in a dry-cured ham model system. The highest growth of this pathogen was observed at 15 °C and, at 0.98 and 0.96 a w values. At 0.94 and 0.92 a w values, moderate NaCl levels stimulated the L. monocytogenes growth and repressed the expression of the four tested genes. At 7 °C, the expression of the plcA gene was favored while at 15 °C the hly and iap genes were activated. Preventive actions based on temperature, a w and salt content should be taken to minimise risks associated with growth and gene expression of L. monocytogenes in dry-cured ham. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the influence of 4 feeding strategies on dry-cured ham quality, 336 barrows and gilts (3 batches, 112 pigs/batch) of 90 kg body weight (BW), were divided into 4 groups and housed in 8 pens with automated feeders. In the control group (C), the pigs were fed restrictively medium-protein feeds and slaughtered at 170 kg BW (SW) and 265 d of slaughter age (SA). With the older age (OA) treatment, the pigs were restrictively fed low protein feeds and slaughtered at 170 kg SW and 278 d SA. The other two groups were fed ad libitum high protein feeds, the younger age (YA) group was slaughtered at 170 kg SW and 237 d SA, the greater weight (GW) at 265 d of SA and 194 kg SW. The hams were dry-cured and seasoned for 607 d, weighed before and after seasoning and deboning. Sixty hams were sampled and sliced. The lean and the fat tissues were separated and analyzed for proximate composition and fatty acid profile. The model of analysis considered sex and treatment as fixed factors. With respect to C: i) OA lowered the ham weight, the lean protein content, increased marbling and decreased the PUFA proportion in intramuscular and subcutaneous fat; ii) YA hams had thicker fat cover with lower PUFA in intramuscular and subcutaneous fat; iii) GW increased the deboned ham weight, fat cover depth and marbling, reduced PUFA in intramuscular and subcutaneous fat, without alteration of the lean moisture content. Sex had a negligible impact. • The impact of four rearing strategies on the dry-cured ham quality was assessed; • Hams from older age pigs were lighter but more marbled than control (C); • Hams from younger age pigs had thicker fat cover with less PUFA than C; • Hams from heavier pigs had greater size, thicker fat cover and less PUFA than C; • Implications for the dry-cured ham industry are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New consumer demands have increased the need for improved food processing and new value-added products that meet the latest quality standards. Changes in eating habits may lead to a preference for lower sodium products, making accurate labelling and nutritional claims important for the industry. The aim of this work was to study the application of Multi-energy X-ray absorptiometry (MEXA) for the determination of nutritional information in sliced packaged dry-cured ham for the industry. The effect of the acquisition conditions, the analysis approach, fat content and measured area of slices, as well as the potential of this technology for the inclusion of a verified 'salt reduced' nutritional claim, were analyzed in two industrial case studies. Two hundred and ten packets of sliced dry-cured ham were scanned using MEXA equipment. Two regions of interest were selected to study the effect of thickness on the model's precision. Salt content could be predicted with a RMSEP of 0.346% and 0.403% when acquisition conditions were 80 keV and 110 keV respectively. When used by the industry, the classification performance for a 'salt reduced' labelling claim depends on the mean salt content and heterogeneity of the company's production and on the threshold value selected for class definition. However, to support consumers personalized nutrition through precise labelling, implementation of MEXA technology together with labelling system is necessary. • Multi-energy X-ray absorptiometry (MEXA) enable salt content precise labeling. • Fat content and thickness affects salt content prediction error. • Verification of 'salt reduced' claim is possible using MEXA. • Many factors influence the salt-reduced labelled misclassification at the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital image analysis based on the ham cross-sectional face was used to measure two lean muscle and three subcutaneous fat locations from 248 bone-in hams. Linear measurements of the two selected fat locations were used to predict dual-energy X-ray (DXA) fat or lean percentages with prediction accuracies (R2) of 0.7 in a stepwise regression eq. A classification system was built based on the prediction equations, and the linear measurements aimed to classify extremes at the threshold of the 10th percentile of DXA fat percentage (> 32.0%) and lean percentage (< 60.2%). When using either DXA fat or lean percentage, lean ham prediction accuracy dropped by 18%, but fat ham prediction accuracy increased by 60% when the threshold was changed from the 10th percentile to the 30th percentile. This classification approach has the potential to be converted into a manual tool with several useful applications for commercial pork processors. • Digital imaging can be an economical tool with multiple uses in the meat industry. • Prediction of ham composition could help processors become more efficient. • Subcutaneous fat depth can be used to predict ham lean or fat composition (R2 ~ 0.7). • Linear measurements can be used to develop an objective tool to classify hams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variability of salt content in dry-cured ham production can pose microbiological food safety issues, especially in salt reduced and/or non-nitrified products. In this regard, computed tomography (CT) could help to non-invasively characterised the product to further adjust the production process and ensure its safety. The aim of this work was to study the application of CT to estimate a w in dry-cured ham to be used by predictive microbiology to evaluate the impact of the production process on the behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum. Effect of nitrite elimination and fat content of hams was also evaluated. Thirty hams with two different fat content levels were characterised analytically and using CT at different key points in the process. The safety of the process was evaluated by applying predictive microbiology using both analytical and CT data as model inputs. Results showed that nitrite and fat content had an impact on the predicted growth potential of the pathogens evaluated. After the resting period, if no nitrite is added, the time needed for 1 log increase (t inc) of L. monocytogenes would shorten by 26% and 22% in lean and fat hams, respectively. After week 12, important differences on t inc values for C. botulinum were found between both groups of hams (ca. 40% shorter in fat hams). CT can provide reliable pixel-to-pixel information for predictive microbiology to evaluate the growth of relevant pathogens, but further studies are needed to validate this combination as a tool to evaluate the safety of the production process. • Computed tomography (CT) allows non-invasive analysis of dry-cured ham (DCH). • Pathogens potential growth using predictive microbiology (PM) is higher in fat hams. • C. botulinum potential growth is 33% shorter in fat hams when no nitrite is added. • CT percentiles to be used as inputs in predictive microbiology (PM) were defined. • CT provides reliable information for PM to study the safety of DCH production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Iberian cured ham from purebred pigs fattened on grazing acorns is a highly appreciated product. There are several analytical methods to avoid its labelling fraud; however, these require opening the ham. The aim of this work is testing a non-destructive sampling method which does not spoil the physical integrity of the ham. It consists of a puncture with a needle imitating a traditional olfactory system. After removing the needle impregnated with fat, its volatiles are analyzed with a Gas Chromatography (GC) coupled to Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS). The potential of this methodology was studied analyzing 156 Iberian hams from pigs under two different feeding regimes (acorns versus feed) and from different breed (Iberian versus Duroc crossed). Intensity of GC-IMS plot features was extracted and chemometric differentiation models were obtained; one for feeding regime and another for breed, providing validated classification rates of 91.7% and 100%, respectively. In addition, 29 features used for construction of both models were tentatively identified using chemical standards. The suitability of the method for quality control analysis was characterized by means of a precision study. As a conclusion, GC-IMS becomes a useful tool to guarantee dry-cured Iberian ham authenticity and detect labelling fraud. Highlights • A fat sampling method for Iberian ham based on the use of needles was used. • The rump was selected as the anatomical area best suited for sampling. • Gas Chromatography Ion Mobility Spectrometry was used to determine volatiles. • Chemometrics was used to classify Iberian ham in terms of feeding and breed purity. • 29 features from GC-IMS topographic maps were tentatively identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The effects of the use of normal and pale, soft, and exudative (PSE) meat on the technological and sensorial quality of restructured cooked hams elaborated with different salt contents (0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, and 2.4%) were investigated. A low salt content implied (P <.05) high cooking loss (6.27 vs 3.25%), expressive moisture and C * values and low hardness. Products elaborated with PSE meat had (P <.05) lower cohesiveness, energy to fracture and hue tone colour and higher springiness than did samples elaborated with normal meat. Salty taste perception was slightly higher for the PSE meat-based products, which were also preferred by the assessors when salt contents lower than 1.6% were used. It was concluded that when PSE meat was used, the addition of 1.2% salt was sufficient to maintain the technological and sensory characteristics of the restructured cooked hams. Highlights • PSE meat and salt effects on quality attributes of cooked ham were evaluated. • Lower salt content implied higher water losses and lower hardness. • The textural properties were main affected by the PSE meat use. • Saltiness perception was slightly higher in the PSE meat-based products. • PSE meat-based products with <1.6% salt were preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract High pressure processing is mainly used to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and extend the shelf-life of dry-cured hams, but it also modifies its texture. These changes might be different depending on the initial textural characteristics. In this study, texture, colour and colour stability were evaluated after pressurization at 600 MPa during 6 min at 7 °C, 20 °C and 35 °C in samples with different textural characteristics (no pastiness, medium and high pastiness groups). HP treatments produced an increase of hardness (F 0) and lightness (L*) values and a decrease of softness/pastiness (Y 2 and Y 90) and redness (a*) values at any processing temperatures. However, the increase of F 0 and L* values was more pronounced in non–pasty samples. In samples with high pastiness and softness, HP processing at high temperature (35 °C) reduced the intensity of pastiness. However, texture of hams with non-pasty texture might be negatively affected. Therefore, the optimal temperature of HP processing depends on the textural characteristics of dry-cured hams [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, a specific sensory panel was created and qualified for sensory assessment of Spanish dry-cured ham. A strict control was carried out in order to recruit, select, train and qualify the assessors. At the beginning, 29 candidates to assessors were considered and at the end only 9 candidates satisfied the conditions required to be qualified as expert assessors of the sensory panel. Furthermore, the precision and trueness of each expert assessor were determined by the repeatability index (Ri a), and intermediate precision index (IPi a), and the deviation index (Di a). In the same way, the panel precision was also evaluated by a proper repeatability index (Ri p) and an intermediate precision (IPi p) index. The provided results were satisfactory and the sensory panel was correctly validated. Currently, the sensory panel continues performing sensory analysis of dry-cured ham. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this study was to describe for the first time the emotional responses during the consumption of three types of Spanish dry-cured hams, namely, 'Iberian', 'Serrano' and 'Curado'. Moreover, dynamic sensory techniques such as Temporal Dominance of Emotions and Temporal Dominance of Sensations were applied to identify the dominant emotions and sensory attributes perceived during ham consumption. >50 emotional terms were generated during sample consumption including positive, negative and neutral terms. Noticeable differences were detected among the three types of dry-cured ham for their emotional profiles. The most dominant emotions evoked by Iberian dry-cured hams were "intense", "authentic" and "pleasant" and could be associated with the domination of cured flavour and juiciness, with both attributes being closely related to their high intramuscular fat content. However, in Serrano and Curado dry-cured hams, the domination of saltiness attribute seemed to contribute to evoking negative emotions as "ordinary", "indifferent" and "dissatisfied". Finally, high duration of the domination of positive emotions as "desirable", "intense", "pleasant" and "authentic" contributed to high overall liking scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper explores the multifractal features of different commercial designations of Iberian ham (acorn 100% Iberian ham, acorn Iberian ham, feed/pasture Iberian ham and feed Iberian ham). This study has been done by taking as input the fatty infiltration patterns obtained from digital image analysis of ham cuts comparing mechanic and manual slicing. The yielded results show the multifractal nature of fatty connective tissue in Iberian ham, only when knife cutting is applied, confirming the differences between the designations according to their genetics and feeding. Thus, the multifractal parameters presented in this work could be considered as additional information for checking Iberian ham quality by using non-destructive methods based on the combination of image analysis and predictive techniques. Meat industry can take advantage of these methods to evaluate meat products, especially when fat-connective tissue with complex pattern distribution is involved. Highlights • Fat infiltration in Iberian ham exhibits multifractal nature. • A set of multifractal dimensions describe fat tissue distribution in ham cut by knife. • Multifractal dimensions could be used as features in ham quality prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to study the structural changes during dry-cured ham manufacturing. T 1 , T 2 and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were determined. Dry cured hams were analysed at different steps of the manufacturing process (raw, salted, post salted, half-cured and cured). Structural changes were linked with the rheological behaviour, estimated by texture profile analysis (TPA) performed in three different muscles of hams (semimembranosus, semitendinosus and biceps femoris). A decrease for T 1 , T 2 and ADC parameters during the curing process was observed, connected to the dehydration kinetics and salt diffusion. Curing process increased hardness and chewiness and reduced elasticity and cohesiveness. Mathematical models were defined to obtain useful equations to monitor ripening. Multiple and simple linear regression models were performed to predict water and salt content and rheological features evolution through MRI parameters. Best settings were achieved with water and salt content for the three studied muscles (R 2 around 0.90). T 1 , T 2 and ADC showed a negative correlation with hardness and a positive relation with springiness and cohesiveness. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Macroestructural changes linked to cured ham manufacturing were monitored by MRI. • Muscles with different anatomical locations were analysed at different ripening times. • Water and salt content and TPA parameters were calculated from T 1 , T 2 and ADC data. • The best correlation was found between MRI parameters and water and salt content. • Predictive MRI allowed monitoring cured ham manufacturing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nitrite residue in hams was detected by a fluorescent and colorimetric sensor based on carbon dots (C-dots) and neutral red (NR). C-dots with green fluorescence was synthesized by a microwave-assisted method. This novel sensor was fabricated by C-dots as donors and NR as acceptors. The presence of nitrite led to decrease of absorbance and increase of fluorescence. Colorimetric and fluorescent methods for nitrite detection were developed with excellent correlation coefficients (R 2 = 0.995 and 0.991) and low limits of detection (196 nM and 0.518 nM). Moreover, nitrite residue in seven types of ham was detected by the colorimetric and fluorescent methods which were verified by a standard method. The results obtained by the proposed method were comparable and agree with that of the Griess-based method (relative errors<5%). C-dots-NR system as a sensor has a potential application for nitrite detection in hams to monitor its quality and safety. Highlights • Carbon dots was synthesized by a simple and rapid microwave method. • A colorimetric and fluorescent method was developed for nitrite detection. • This method exhibited high sensitivity for nitrite detection with LOD of 0.518 nM. • Nitrite residue in hams detected by the method accorded with that of standard method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the relationships between the quality evaluation of loin and the quality evaluation of ham and belly from the same carcasses for trying to predict the quality parameters of ham and belly based on measurements made on the loin. The research material consisted of 105 pork carcasses, from which three elements were cut and marked: loin, ham and belly. Quality evaluation included: pH, color, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), and sensory analysis. All designated quadratic equations were characterized by low R 2 values from 0.06 to 0.43 for ham and from 0.00 to 0.28 for belly. However, it is possible to predict the quality parameters of ham or belly with different levels of accuracy (R 2 from 0.50 to 0.92 - depending on the measurement and the element), using measurements selected from all those tested on the loin. Those loin quality measurements most frequently used in equations were chewiness and CL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thickness of the subcutaneous fat in hams is one of the most important factors for the dry-curing process and largely determines its final quality. This parameter is usually measured in slaughterhouses by a manual metrical measure to classify hams. The aim of the present study was to propose an automatic classification method based on data obtained from a carcass automatic classification equipment (AutoFom) and intrinsic data of the pigs (sex, breed, and weight) to simulate the manual classification system. The evaluated classification algorithms were decision tree, support vector machines (SVM), k-nearest neighbour and discriminant analysis. A total of 4000 hams selected by breed and sex were classified as thin (0–10 mm), standard (11–15 mm), semi-fat (16–20 mm) and fat (>20 mm). The most reliable model, with a percentage of success of 73%, was SVM with Gaussian kernel, including all data available. These results suggest that the proposed classification method can be a useful online tool in slaughterhouses to classify hams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, non-invasive near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with chemometrics was evaluated as a possible online analytical technique to categorize pieces of cured ham on the industrial production line based on their maximum sodium content. Stifle muscle was selected for the development of the NIRS prediction models because it is the one with the highest sodium content and the easiest in terms of accessibility for spectral measurement. In the study, samples with varying thicknesses were taken. The suitability of this method is demonstrated when a 5 mm sample is used for the construction of the model, obtaining the best fit with an R2cv of 92% and a prediction error of 0.11% sodium that coincides with the error of the reference method. In conclusion, a method is proposed for the direct determination of sodium content on the production line which allows the different pieces of ham to be quickly categorized according to their salt content. • NIRS methodology can be used for on-line categorization of cured ham according to salt content. • NIR radiation penetration in the sample affects directly the construction of models. • Wet chemical analysis must take into account NIR penetration to build calibration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight treatments of edible coatings and nets including liquid smoke (SP and 24P) and xanthan gum (XG) were used to evaluate their effectiveness at controlling mite growth on dry-cured hams. Mite growth was controlled (P < 0.05) in both coating and netting treatments of 1% SP + 1% XG. Increasing SP concentration from 1% to 2% in the SP only treatments without XG did not control mite growth (P > 0.05) in the coating but controlled mite growth (P < 0.05) when infused in the nets. Both coating and netting treatments with 2% 24P + 1% XG controlled mite growth (P < 0.05), and ham cubes with 1% and 2% 24P in infused nets had mite numbers of 4.6 and 9.4, respectively. SP did not impact the sensory attributes of the ham. Results indicate that liquid smoke can potentially be added in coatings or ham nets to control mites and used in an integrated pest management program for dry-cured hams. • Use of 1% SP liquid smoke with xanthan gum controlled mite growth. • Infusing 1% and 2% Select 24P liquid smoke into nets controlled mite growth. • Liquid smoke did not impact the sensory qualities of country ham as edible coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 32 fresh hams intended for the Spanish Protected Designation of Origin "Teruel ham" were used to evaluate the impact of gilt immunocastration (vs. entire gilts) on weight losses during the dry-curing process. After processing, 20 dry-cured hams (10 of each group) were chosen at random to assess instrumental and chemical characteristics. Hams from immunocastrated gilts tended (P = 0.057) to present lower weight losses, they were fattier (P < 0.05) at both subcutaneous and intramuscular levels and had lower (P < 0.05) water activity and volatile compounds that provide unpleasant odors than those from entire gilts. However, immunocastration increased (P < 0.05) slightly sodium chloride and sodium nitrite contents, being normal levels. Fatty acid profile was not significantly affected (P > 0.05). It can be concluded that, in general, immunocastration could be a good strategy in gilts to improve the quality of Teruel dry-cured ham. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A microwave assisted extraction method coupled with solvent assisted flavor evaporation (MAE-SAFE) was used to extract the volatiles from three-selected Chinese dry-cured hams ( Jinhua ham , Xuanwei ham and Rugao ham ). Extracts were analyzed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry ( GC × GC/HR-TOFMS ), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry ( GC–MS ), respectively. A total 165 volatile compounds were identified by GC × GC/HR-TOFMS while only 50 compounds were identified by GC–MS. Principal component analysis showed that the specific dominant volatile compounds were [S-(R*,R*)]-2,3-butanediol (26.39%) and 3-methyl-butanoic acid (7.53%) for Jinhua ham, were [R-(R*,R*)]-2,3-butanediol (16.85%) and acetic acid (8.25%) for Rugao ham and were dihydro-4-hydroxy-2(3H)-furanone (11.67%) and hexanoic acid (8.24%) for Xuanwei ham. The results not only provided a fast and mild extraction method to analyze the volatiles in non-volatile food matrices, but also represented the detailed information of volatile profiles of Chinese dry-cured hams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible coatings/films with functional ingredients may be a solution to consumers' demands for high-quality food products and an extended shelf-life. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficiency of edible coatings incorporated with probiotics on sliced ham preservation. Coatings was developed based on whey protein isolates with incorporation of Bifidobacterium animalis Bb-12® or Lactobacillus casei -01. The physicochemical analyses showed that coating decreased water and weight loss on the ham. Furthermore, color analysis showed that coated sliced ham, exhibited no color change, comparatively to uncoated slices. The edible coatings incorporating the probiotic strains inhibited detectable growth of Staphylococcus spp ., Pseudomonas spp ., Enterobacteriaceae and yeasts/molds, at least, for 45 days of storage at 4 °C. The sensory evaluation demonstrated that there was a preference for the sliced coated ham. Probiotic bacteria viable cell numbers were maintained at ca. 10 8 CFU/g throughout storage time, enabling the slice of ham to act as a suitable carrier for the beneficial bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reported salt levels in whole-muscle cured meat products differ substantially within and among European countries, providing substantial scope for salt reduction across this sector. The objective of this study was to identify the minimum acceptable salt levels in typical whole-muscle cured products in terms of physicochemical, microbial and sensorial properties. Salt levels in a small selection of commercial Irish meat products were determined to establish a baseline for reduction. Subsequently, eight different back bacon rasher and cooked ham products were produced with varying levels of salt: 2.9%, 2.5%, 2% and 1.5% for bacon, and 2%, 1.6%, 1.0% and 0.8% for ham. Salt reduction produced products with significantly harder texture and higher microbial counts, with no difference in the colour and affecting the sensory properties. Nonetheless, salt reduction proved to be feasible to levels of 34% and 19% in bacon and ham products, respectively, compared to baseline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contents of zinc-protoporphyrin (ZnPP) and heme in twenty-four sliced Parma hams made without the addition of curing agents were determined. Expressed on a dry weight basis, ZnPP averaged 45 mg/kg and ranged from 23 to 85 mg/kg. The heme content averaged 37 mg/kg on a dry matter basis and ranged from 17 to 73 mg/kg. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression analyses were carried out to examine the existing correlations between these pigments and various physicochemical parameters in the final product. PCA showed the existence of associations between ZnPP, sensory redness and salt content. PLS suggests that the conversion of ZnPP from heme is facilitated in those hams with a higher proteolysis index and higher marbling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to characterize dry-cured hams from four different processing methods (differences in primary leg treatment, salting and smoking phase). Volatile compounds were isolated by using headspace-solid phase microextraction and analysed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Samples were also evaluated by sensory and physico-chemical characteristics (moisture, protein, fat and NaCl content, a w , colour). 149 volatile compounds of dry-cured hams were identified and 15 of them were quantified. Identified volatile compounds belonged to several classes of chemical: 25 aldehydes, 18 phenols, 12 alcohols, 16 terpenes, 27 aromatic hydrocarbons, 18 aliphatic hydrocarbons, 17 ketones, 9 esters and 7 acids. Most abundant volatiles in ham samples were aldehydes (34.46–49.78%). Principal component analysis showed a good separation among groups. Smoked dry-cured hams showed a higher content of phenols, aromatic hydrocarbons, and acids and were characterized by smoky aroma, while non-smoked dry-cured hams showed higher content of terpenes, ketones, alcohols, esters, aliphatic hydrocarbons and were characterized with spicy aroma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volatile fraction of 30 Iberian dry-cured hams of different physicochemical characteristics and the effect of high pressure processing (HPP) at 600 MPa on volatile compounds were investigated. According to the analysis of variance carried out on the levels of 122 volatile compounds, intramuscular fat content influenced the levels of 8 benzene compounds, 5 carboxylic acids, 2 ketones, 2 furanones, 1 alcohol, 1 aldehyde and 1 sulfur compound, salt concentration influenced the levels of 1 aldehyde and 1 ketone, salt-in-lean ratio had no effect on volatile compounds, and water activity influenced the levels of 3 sulfur compounds, 1 alcohol and 1 aldehyde. HPP-treated samples of Iberian ham had higher levels of 4 compounds and lower levels of 31 compounds than untreated samples. A higher influence of HPP treatment on volatile compounds than physicochemical characteristics was observed for Iberian ham. Therefore, HPP treatment conditions should be optimized in order to diminish its possible effect on Iberian ham odor and aroma characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed at evaluating if heavy pig low-protein diets balanced for amino acid (AA) profile affect the quality characteristics of dry cured hams. To the aim, 40 hams obtained by Italian Duroc × Italian Large White pigs fed three different dietary crude protein and indispensable AA levels were compared with those obtained by a conventional Parma ham Protected Designation of Origin diet (C). No physico-chemical (aw, pH), chemical (gross composition, NaCl, lipid peroxidation, non-protein nitrogen, total volatile bases) or sensory characteristics of hams were systematically affected by the administered diet, animal sex or their interaction with the exception of total and subcutaneous fat (the latter measured by an image analysis procedure). Considering gilts, low-protein diets resulted in samples with higher fat content and subcutaneous fat thickness with respect to hams obtained with C diet. In conclusion, low protein diets in the finishing phase of pig breeding could reduce the environmental impact due to nitrogen excretion without significantly affecting ham quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high-quality air-dried cured sheep meat products adapted to meet consumer demands represent an interesting option to add value to the meat of adult animals. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of process parameters on consumer choice of two products from sheep meat under different evoked contexts, considering product concepts. A total of 375 Brazilian participants completed a choice-based conjoint task with three 2-level variables for each product: maturation time, smoking, and sodium reduction for dry-cured sheep ham, and natural antioxidant, smoking, and sodium reduction for sheep meat coppa. A between-subjects experimental design was used to evaluate the influence of consumption context on consumer choices. All the process parameters significantly influenced consumer choice. However, their relative importance was affected by evoked context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-cured formed hams were produced with different concentrations of microbial transglutaminase (TG; 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8% Activa PB) and glucono-delta-lactone as control. A sensory evaluation was performed during a 43-day storage to determine cohesion, cavities, and local separation of dry-cured formed ham. Rising TG concentrations resulted in a slight increase in the evaluation of all sensory parameters, whereas amounts of TG higher than 0.5% led to an only very minor improvement. Dry-cured formed ham samples were analyzed by a sensitive HPLC-MS/MS method for the detection of TG using five tryptic marker peptides. Even very small amounts of Activa PB (0.05%) were detectable unambiguously. A decrease of TG detectability during the storage time of dry-cured formed ham was not observed. Using four marker peptides, no false-positive or -negative results were obtained. The amounts of two marker peptides were calculated using isotope-labeled peptides. They showed high correlations to the amount of Activa PB (R 2 > 0.995). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh hams display significant lean color variation that persists through further processing and contributes to a less desirable cured product. In an attempt to understand the underlying cause of this color disparity, we evaluated the differences in muscle characteristics and energy metabolites across semimembranosus (SM) muscles differing in color variation. The L* (lightness) and a* (redness) values were highest and lowest (P < 0.001), respectfully in the most caudal aspects of the muscle while the ultimate pH was the lowest (P < 0.001). Correspondingly, this region possessed highest (P < 0.01) glycolytic potential (GP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels but did not differ in the amount of myoglobin or myosin heavy chain type I isoform. These data show that differences in muscle may contribute to ham color variation but suggest other factors may mitigate or exacerbate these variances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, non-invasive near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was evaluated as a potential on-line analytical technique to predict the sodium content in dry-cured ham slices. Samples of 310 packages were scanned by applying a remote fibre-optic probe to the surface of the slices, at different temperatures, with no previous manipulation. The sodium content of the meat samples was determined by a reference method based on Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometry (ICP-AES) after chemical digestion. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was used as a chemometrics method to perform the calibrations. The models yielded acceptable results with cross validation correlation coefficients (R 2 CV ) determined 86.2–90.2%. The prediction capacity reached in the external validation was 3.63, with a standard prediction error of 0.12% Na. These results show that NIR measurements could be implemented on the packaging line of dry-cured ham slices to provide accurate and relevant information about the sodium content of each packaged products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to characterize the different types of muscle hemorrhages in the ham and tenderloin of CO 2 -stunned slaughter pigs. The distinct types of hemorrhages were characterized according to their distribution and size. The hemorrhages in the ham were multiple, pinpoint hemorrhages predominantly distributed in the caudal part of the muscle. The hemorrhages in the tenderloin were single and circular, located either at the tip or the head. Histologically, three distinct types of hemorrhages were observed. Type 1, which was peracute (< 4 h old), and present in both the ham and the tenderloin. Type 2, which was acute (> 4 h old), and restricted to the ham. Type 3 contained bone marrow and cartilage, was peracute (< 4 h old) and restricted to the tenderloin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cured Iberian ham is a worldwide known product due to its high quality. Nowadays, there is a lack of official analytical methods to differentiate geographical origin (Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)), the curing plant where hams are processed, as well as the commercial categories in each industry. In this work, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) extracted from 998 Iberian hams were analyzed by Gas Chromatography coupled to Ion Mobility Spectrometry (GC-IMS), using the subsequent information to design discriminant models. High classification percentages were obtained for the three objectives of the study: 98,5% for geographical origin, 93,5% and 100% for curing plant discrimination, and an average rate of 84,5% for commercial category discrimination in the seven curing plants subject to study. Differences obtained in discriminant models are probably due to the complexity of Iberian ham manufacturing process. In this sense, the results obtained in the present study suggest slight differences between geographical areas and industries evaluated, even covered by the same PDO. Also, those differences may be related to the existing variability in terms of breed purity and feeding regime of Iberian pigs, which are two of the main determining factors of ham aroma. • A volatilome analysis of fat samples provides useful information about Iberian ham. • A success of 98,5% was achieved for Protected Designation of Origin discrimination. • The curing plant of origin was predicted with a success of 100% and 93,5%. • An 84,5% average differentiation at plant level was achieved for commercial category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteolytic activity and physico-chemical characteristics were studied for Norwegian dry-cured ham at four different times of processing: raw hams, post-salted hams (3 months of processing), hams selected in the middle of the production (12 months of processing) and hams at the end of the processing (24 months). Cathepsin H activity decreased until negligible values after 3 months of processing, whereas cathepsins B and B + L were inactive at 12 months. AAP was the most active aminopeptidase whereas RAP and MAP were active just during the first 12 months of processing. Proteolysis index reached a value of 4.56 ± 1.03 % with non-significant differences between 12 and 24 months of ripening. Peptide identification by LC-MS/MS was done and two peptides (GVEEPPKGHKGNKK and QAISNNKDQGSY) showing a linear response with the time of processing were found. Unfreezable water content and glass transition temperature were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique with non-significant differences in the temperature of glass transition for 12 and 24 months of processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes the effect of the incorporation of 1% spent yeast extract into cooked hams. Physical/chemical/sensorial characteristics and changes during 12 and 90 days storage were evaluated on control and treated cooked hams processed for 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 or 3 h. Spent yeast extract addition increased hardness, chewiness, ash, protein and free amino acid content. Similar volatile profiles were obtained, although there were some quantitative differences. No advantages were observed for increased cooking time. No significant differences were observed for physical and sensorial parameters of cooked hams with spent yeast extract at 12 and 90 days post production, but His, aldehydes and esters increased at the end of storage. This behaviour was similar to that observed for control hams. The higher hardness of cooked ham with 1% yeast extract was due to the stronger gel formed during cooking and was maintained during storage. This additive acts as gel stabilizer for cooked ham production and could potentially improve other processing characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), two sources of starch (potato starch: PS and rice starch: RS) and comminution degree (CD) on the technological, instrumental and sensory characteristics of reformed hams were studied using response surface methodology. Both starches reduced cook loss and decreased ham flavour intensity, but RS had stronger effects on instrumental measures of texture, while PS was associated with improved juiciness when low/no added STPP was included. Coarsely ground meat, processed 100% with the kidney plate was associated with slightly increased cook loss, reduced texture profile analysis parameters and a more intense ham flavour compared to the other treatment (80% ground with a kidney plate plus 20% with a 9 mm plate). STPP was the sole factor affecting overall liking. If starch is included in the formulation, the standard level of STPP (0.3%) can be reduced by half with no increase in cook losses, but some decline in sensory quality cannot be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effects of dietary crude protein (CP) and lysine (Lys) content on some technological properties of green hams destined for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) dry-cured ham, green hams visual appraisal scores, thickness, iodine number and fatty acid composition of subcutaneous fat, and ham weight losses during seasoning (SL) were assessed. The green hams were obtained from 233 pigs fed four diets containing 140 to 110 g/kg CP and 6.5 to 5.3 g/kg total Lys from 90 to 165 kg body weight. A reduction in dietary CP and Lys of up to 20% compared with conventional feeds led to a 15% increase in the thickness of the subcutaneous fat, a 5% decrease in linoleic and polyunsaturated fatty acids in subcutaneous fat and a 7% decrease in SL. A 20% reduction of CP and Lys in diets for finishing pigs has positive effects on the technological properties of green hams destined for PDO dry-cured ham production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of salt content (normal and reduced) and feeding system (montanera and concentrate) on the dynamic sensory characteristics of dry-cured hams using time-intensity (TI) and Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS) techniques. Differences in the temporal sensory information given by the two different techniques were found. Significant differences in the temporal perception of flavour and texture were detected between normal and reduced salt content dry-cured hams which are a Spanish pricy meat product very appreciated by consumers due to its particular sensory characteristics. The effect of the feeding system was mainly observed on flavour attributes such as saltiness and cured flavour and texture attributes such as juiciness. The application of TDS technique to study temporal sensory attributes of dry-cured ham is reported for the first time in the present article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a consumer acceptability analysis of dry-cured ham based on sensory evaluation. Consumer acceptability data are rendered heterogeneous by the diverse backgrounds and assessment abilities of the participants, requiring versatile analytical methods for their interpretation. Totally, 9 sensory attributes of 12 kinds of dry-cured ham samples collected from Japan ( n = 9), Italy ( n = 1), Spain ( n = 1), and Germany ( n = 1) were tasted by 117 Japanese consumers who showed acceptable evaluation abilities during blind sampling. Common techniques, such as hierarchical clustering, principal component analysis, and external preference mapping, were simultaneously utilized to analyze each characteristics scored in modified hedonic scale. These analyses revealed the relationships between the features and preferences of the assessors. For example, consumers aged 20–30 with smoking and drinking habits preferred sweetness and saltiness, and gave high ratings to Spanish Jómon serrano and Italian prosciutto. Our approach could assist ham marketers to identify potential purchasers and the preferred characteristics of their products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study determined the emotional reactions of consumers in relation to hams using face visualization method, which was recorded by FaceReader (FR). The aims of the research were to determine the effect of the ham samples on the type of emotion, to examine more deeply the individual emotional reactions of consumers and to analyse the emotional variability with regard to the temporal measurement of impressions. The research involved testing the effectiveness of measuring emotions in response to the ongoing flavour impression after consumption of smoked hams. It was found that for all of the assessed samples, neutral and negative emotions prevailed as the overall emotions recorded during the assessment of the taste/flavour impression. The range of variability of the overall emotions depended more on the consumer reactions and less on the properties of the assessed product. Consumers expressed various emotions in time and the ham samples evoked different emotional reactions as an effect of duration of the impression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study effects of a novel high barrier multilayer polyamide film containing dispersed nanoclays (PA N ) on the stability of vacuum packed dry-cured ham were investigated during 90 days refrigerated storage in comparison with non-modified multilayer polyamide (PA) and a commercial high barrier film. Characteristic bands of the mineral in FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of nanoclays in PA N , enhancing oxygen transmission barrier properties and UV protection. Packaging in PA N films did not originate significant changes on colour or lipid oxidation during prolonged storage of vacuum-packed dry-cured ham. Larger oxygen transmission rates in PA films caused changes in CIE b * during refrigerated storage. Ham quality was not affected by light exposition during 90 days and only curing had a significant benefit on colour and TBARS, being cured samples more stable during storage in all the packages used. Packaging of dry-cured ham in PA N was equivalent to commercial high barrier films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As high pressure processing (HPP) is becoming more and more important in the food industry, this study examined the application of HPP (500 and 600 MPa) as a manufacturing step during simulated ham production. By replacing conventional heating with HPP steps, ham-like texture or color attributes could not be achieved. HPP products showed a less pale, less red appearance, softer texture and higher yields. However, a combination of mild temperature (53 °C) and 500 MPa resulted in parameters more comparable to cooked ham. We conclude that HPP can be used for novel food development, providing novel textures and colors. However, when it comes to ham production, a heating step seems to be unavoidable to obtain characteristic ham properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to clarify the formation process of flavor compounds and identify the volatile substances present during a continuous period of Jinhua dry-cured ham (JDH) making. Via headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS), a total of 53 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including 20 aldehydes, 16 alcohols, 11 ketones, 5 esters and 1 furan, were identified in JDH from seven sampling stages. The results showed that butanal, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylbutanal, 2-hexanone, 2-pentanone and 2-butanone could be flavor markers in the evolution of aroma characteristics of JDH. Aldehydes (2-methylbutanal and 3-methylbutanal), alcohols (2-methylpropanol, 2-methylbutanol, 3-methylbutanol and 1-penten-3-ol), ketones (2-pentanone, 2-propanone, 2-butanone and 2-hexanone) and esters (ethyl acetate and ethyl 3-methylbutyrate) were considered the main VOCs in the mature JDH. Free fatty acid (FFA) analysis displayed the changes in intramuscular fat (IMF) of JDH. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) showed that drying-ripening was a critical stage in the flavor formation of JDH. • A total of 53 volatile compounds in JDH were identified via HS-GC-IMS. • Changes in flavor compounds and FFAs of JDH during processing were evaluated. • Salting plays a critical role in the preparation flavoring precursors. • Drying-ripening plays a critical role in the formation of flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]