Darkcutter

Darkcutter or Dark, Firm, Dry (DFD) is a condition that affects the quality of meat, particularly beef. It is characterized by a darker than normal color, a firm texture, and a dry appearance.

Overview

Darkcutter is a result of long-term stress in animals prior to slaughter. This stress depletes the muscle's store of glycogen, which is needed to produce lactic acid after slaughter. Without sufficient lactic acid, the pH of the meat remains high, leading to the dark, firm, dry condition.

Causes

The primary cause of darkcutter is stress. This can be due to a variety of factors, including poor handling, transportation, weather conditions, and illness. Other factors that can contribute to the development of darkcutter include the animal's age, sex, and breed.

Impact

Darkcutter has a significant impact on the meat industry. Meat affected by this condition is less appealing to consumers due to its dark color and dry texture. As a result, it often sells at a lower price, leading to economic losses for producers.

Prevention

Preventing darkcutter involves minimizing stress in animals. This can be achieved through proper handling techniques, good transportation practices, and maintaining the health and well-being of the animals.

See also

• Meat quality
• Stress in animals
• Animal welfare