Question

Several different carcass suspension methods have been shown to increase the tenderness of the longissimus dorsi including the tenderstretch, superstretch, and tendercut methods. Why do these methods improve tenderness over conventional Achilles hanging methods? O None of the provided answer choices They increase the amount of muscle contraction They increase calpain activity due to increased calcium release They increase the length of the sarcomeres They hasten the development of rigor mortis

Answer 1

Option e is the correct answer

• The Achilles method – The hanging hook is positioned through the rear heels. Gravity causes tension in these muscles as the carcass goes through rigor mortis which can result in tougher meat than tender-stretch method.

• Tender stretch method – The hanging hook is positioned under the ligament that runs down the back of the carcass, or under the hip-bone of the pelvis. In this position, the legs are suspended at a 90° angle, which limits the contraction of muscles during rigor mortis. This method especially benefits the hindquarter cuts