Comparison of the Technological Application Potential of Functional Ingredients for the Meat Industry Based upon a Novel Fast Screening Tool

The application potential of functional ingredients for the meat industry is often assessed through different measuring tools, thereby making comparisons difficult. The aim of this study was to create valuable information about the performance of functional ingredients based upon standardized and comparable data gathered through a newly developed screening tool. Therefore, 25 ingredients, selected from different techno-functional classes, were characterized at 2 different dosages by means of the screening methodology. The tool itself consisted of a lean meat model and fatty liver-based system, representative of the finely minced and/or emulsified charcuterie market. A total of 23 different parameters were measured through both model systems, providing information concerning water and fat binding capacity, emulsification, and texture and structure formation. Through cluster analysis, the ingredients were assigned to groups, each with their own specific properties. The screening tool provided good descriptive and distinctive power concerning ingredient functionalities and offers the industry a clear overview of their application characteristics.