Evaluation of low-temperature ultrasonic marination of pork meat at various frequencies on physicochemical properties, myoglobin levels, and volatile compounds

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the pork meat quality after ultrasonic brining at different frequencies, thereby providing a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of ultrasound marination on meat. The texture profile analysis showed that ultrasonic curing at various frequencies significantly improved the textural properties of samples, especially at 26.8 kHz, resulting in a reduction of tenderness, hardness, and chewiness values by 44%, 43%, and 44%, respectively. The cooking loss of samples marinated by ultrasound decreased from 27% without ultrasonic treatment to 22%, indicating a significant improvement in water-holding capacity, while the changes in pH had only a subtle impact on pork quality. Meanwhile, the color of pork became more rosy hue due to decreased L^⁎ values and increased a^⁎ values, which was mainly attributed to an elevated proportion of oxymyoglobin and reduced metmyoglobin content. Additionally, ultrasonic marination did not exert a negative impact on the oxidation of pork protein and lipids. After roasting, samples marinated by ultrasound exhibited a significantly higher abundance of volatile flavor compounds compared to static marinated meat (with an increase of 16 flavor substances) and fresh pork (with an increase of 24 flavor substances), demonstrating the efficacy of ultrasonic marination in enhancing the overall flavor and taste profile of pork. Consequently, the application of ultrasonic technology holds great potential for the “home kitchen type” rapid marination.