Evaluation of a dehydrated beef protein to replace sodium-based phosphates in injected beef strip loins

A dehydrated beef protein (DBP) was evaluated as a replacement for the phosphate added to beef injection brines. U.S. Select strip loins (n = 20) were injected to 110% of their initial weight with a brine containing 3.6% salt and 4.5% sodium phosphate (CON) or 3.6% salt and 5% dehydrated beef protein (DBP). DBP loins had less fluid loss after 30 min. Steaks from both treatments lost similar amounts of fluid during storage. Total fluid loss was lower for DBP injected product. Lipid oxidation (TBARS) products were 0.23-0.60 mg/Kg higher for DBP steaks. DBP steaks were slightly less red than CON steaks according to instrumental measurements. Sensory panel evaluation, however, indicated no differences in redness. DBP steaks were less tender according to trained sensory panel. Results indicated the DBP to be effective in increasing brine retention and a viable alternative to phosphates when used in brines injected into beef strip steaks.

►A dried beef collagen water binder was investigated in beef injection brines. ►Beef collagen was successful in retaining as much fluid as phosphates during storage. ►Collagen resulted in slightly higher oxidation rates and less tender beef. ►The potential to reduce sodium and retain fluid should help processors.