Meat flavor volatiles: a review of the composition, techniques of analysis, and sensory evaluation.

Flavor is an important quality attribute which relates to the organoleptic characteristics of meat. Although perception of flavor is a complex phenomenon, odor is the most important single factor contributing to the overall characteristics of flavor. A large number of compounds have been identified in the volatile fraction of red meats and poultry. An overview of the chemical constituents present in the volatiles of beef, pork, mutton, and chicken is presented according to species and arranged by chemical class--hydrocarbons, alcohols, acids, aldehydes, ketones, sulfides, heterocyclic compounds, etc. The volatile components of cured and uncured pork are compared. The field of meat flavor is assessed in terms of what has been accomplished and the direction in which it may proceed. Techniques for analysis of these volatiles are briefly described.