Caffeine stimulated lipolysis protects pigs against catecholamine-induced dark cutting.

High ultimate pH dark cutting meat was obtained in Pietrain pigs following overnight intravenous infusion of the β-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol. This effect was enhanced by simultaneous administration of the antilipolytic agent nicotinic acid and completely reversed by pretreatment of the animals with caffeine (which stimulates lipolysis). These results suggest that the availability of energy substrates from adipose tissue (free fatty acids and glycerol) is an important factor in the production of dark cutting meat. Stimulation of lipolysis in animals prior to pre-slaughter stresses (such as transport and lairing) could possibly reduce the incidence of dark cutting meat.