Comparative Study on Three Methods for Determining Air Content in Meat Batters

Measurement of air content in meat batters is useful, as larger amounts of air negatively affect some properties of comminuted products. Three methods were compared. One method (Vemag) involved liberation of entrapped air from the batter by the combined effects of vacuum and mechanical forces. The other two methods involved application of under- (Smrat) or over- (Handtmann) pressure and calculation of the air content using Boyle's ideal gas law. The Smrat showed the lowest reproducibility. However, being the most rapid and easy to use, it was the method of choice for routine quality and process control. The Vemag and more favorably the Handtmann were recommended for accurate and reproducible determinations.