Effect of immersion in bromelain solution on toughness and collagen content of bovine muscles

Abstract

This study examined the effect of immersion in bromelain solution on toughness and collagen content of three muscles (M. adductor, M. psoas major, and M. supraspinatus) from Japanese Shorthorn steers (n＝4). Muscle samples were immersed in bromelain solution (0.43%) at 40°C for 1 h, heated at 80°C for 3 min, and then the load of gumminess and collagen content were analyzed. Collagen elution was not observed in the bromelain solution at 40°C, but collagen was eluted into the solution at 80°C in all muscle samples. Load of gumminess of M. adductor and M. supraspinatus significantly decreased after immersion with bromelain solution at 40°C and heated at 80°C but that of M. psoas major was not significantly affected.