Benefits of ultrasonic technology application in meat field and its influential mechanism: a review

Ultrasound is regarded as an effective and promising non-thermal technology, and it is increasingly investigated in recent years in the meat field in order to speed up the processing or improve the quality properties. This review comprehensively summarizes the contributions of ultrasonic application in seven aspects (curing, tenderization, emulsification, freezing, thawing, sterilization and flavor) in the processing of meat and/or its products, discussing the different types of application with some examples, and deeply explaining the involved mechanisms. Ultrasound-triggered cavitation effect is confirmed to be a pretty important reason for the promotion of processing efficiency and quality attributes of meat and/or its products. The present work will provide an in-depth systematic review on the knowledge of ultrasonic technology for a better understanding of the positive aspects of the application of such technology in the meat field.