Abstract (EN):
Purpose The purpose of this work is the physicochemical characterization of a traditional Portuguese meat sausage, "Chourica de came de Melgaco", including its lipid profile, taking into account the effects of autochthonous pig breed (Bisaro) and processing scale in its final composition. Design/methodology/approach Sausages from three manufacturers' scales (homemade, traditional, and industrial) and two breed origins (Bisaro and non Bisaro) were analysed for pH, moisture, fat, protein, ash, NaCl, hydroxyproline and fatty acid composition. A total of 11 samples from each type of manufacture and breed were randomly selected after the complete drying-ripening process, in a total of 55 samples. Findings Physicochemical analysis of meat sausages showed a medium protein content (28-33 per cent) correlated to manufacture type (p < 0.05), and a high fat level (29-41 per cent) related with manufacture type and breed. Homemade manufacture was characterized by lower moisture and higher salt contents, reinforcing consumer's safety and economical assurance. The industrial processed sausages presented significantly higher moisture content and higher PUFA contents than expected, indicating the use in the feeding of the pigs feedstuffs rich in oilseed components and an increased susceptibility to oxidation. Comparing with similar products from foreign origins, this sausage is characterized by similar salt contents and similar or lower fat contents, highly monounsaturated, with positive nutritional outcomes. Originality/value The improvement and control of Chourica de carne de Melgaco manufacturing and breed origin is clearly needed. PGI should be implemented to guarantee genuineness of this product. The preservation of traditional procedures must guarantee the high quality of the product, its safety and consumer's acceptability.
Language:
English
Type (Professor's evaluation):
Scientific
Contact:
beatoliv@ff.up.pt
No. of pages:
11