Request for proposal - IMF benchmarking and sensory evaluation

⁠⁠⁠Project: Investigation on different levels of the intramuscular fat in Australian pork and its affect on pork sensory evaluation.

Background
In 2020, the APL Board identified pork eating quality as a prioritisation. It was determined that this strategic intent warrants investment t  improve eating quality through innovation and science. As such  eating quality was a key factor identified in the 2020-2025 Strategic Plan as an influence on consumer demand in both domestic and international markets. The strategic focus for R&I will be to address the main contributors on farm and in processing, leading to consistency and increased eating quality.

Current breeding programs in the Australian pig industry are focused on lowering P2, improving growth rates and producing higher yield parameters, however, may inadvertently have an impact on meat quality traits. D’Souza (2013) noted that intramuscular fat (IMF) levels adversely affected by the production of leaner and heavier pigs and the perception is that Australian pork is now tougher in texture, less moisture and has reduced flavour. Due to a lack of understanding surrounding the IMF content of different supply chain genetics and its relationship with season, live weight and cut, APL commissioned the first phase of research focussed on investigating IMF baseline data along with eating quality and carcass attributes. As a next stage of the research in IMF area, APL is requesting research proposals.

Project requirements
The aim is to fill in knowledge gaps and improve understanding of the IMF and sensory effects in Australian pork supply chains focussing on following areas:

1) Investigate the different levels (Low, Medium and High) of IMF in various pork cuts across different supply chains.
2) Sensory evaluation of samples of different IMF levels using trained sensory panellists for parameters including but not limited to juiciness, tenderness, flavour.
3) Consumer sensory evaluation of samples of different IMF levels to determine acceptance and preference of pork products.
4) Update PQS model with inclusion of IMF levels.

Project deliverables
1. Final Report
2. Development of factsheets (through working with the APL Producer Relations team) for pig producers which provide recommendations based on scientific analysis

Timeline
10th September 2021 - Application submission
30th September 2021 - Expected execution of contract/issue of Provider Agreement

Submission
How to make a submission:
Register or log in via PigConnect - https://pigconnect.australianpork.com.au/
• Submit and manage Project Applications
• View and manage your in-progress Projects
• Review Project Applications referred to you

Contact
If you are interested in submitting an application, please contact
Dr Vaibhav Gole
Manager, Integrity Systems
0436934763
vaibhav.gole@australianpork.com.au